It’s World Vegetarian Day today, and if you’ve been considering switching to a plant-based diet for a while now, maybe this is the perfect time to finally make that leap.
With more people turning towards green foods during the COVID-19 pandemic, it helps to know exactly how plant-based meat alternatives can empower your body’s immune system to fight the virus.
Stimulating T-cells
T-cells are a type of white blood cell that are essential in maintaining a healthy immune system. Fruits and vegetables are rich in antioxidants such as carotenoids and flavonoids–these have antiviral capabilities which stimulate the activities of T-cells.
Reduction of inflammation
Essential nutrients found in plants also help in neutralising toxins from pollution, processed food, bacteria, virus and more. Prolonged inflammation can result in damaged cells and tissues which increases the risk of disease. A plant-based diet can help in removing some of the triggers.
Improving gut health
Since plants are high in fiber, eating more veggies improves your gut health. This can help in increasing your body’s ability to absorb the nutrients from foods that boost your immune system. Fiber is also good for reducing inflammation and stabilising cholesterol levels.
Maintaining a healthy weight
One of the biggest advantages of following a plant-based diet is that you’re able to cut out many of the foods that can make you gain weight instantly. But it is also necessary to make sure you’re eating adequately portioned meals during the whole day, whether you’re eating meat or veggies. It’s important to avoid deep-fried vegetables and highly processed food like cookies.
Reducing risk of other diseases
A plant-based can help in considerably reducing the risk of developing conditions such as hypertension, high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes. This means, you become less vulnerable to the COVID-19 virus as you have lower rates of pre-existing conditions.