From lowering your risk of chronic diseases to protecting precious ecosystems, the advantages of going vegan extend far beyond the plate. In fact, experts are continuously sharing the benefits of going vegan, as recent figures show more than 700,000 people globally signed up for Veganuary in 2023.

That said, health and nutrition experts at Prepped Pots powered by MuscleFood have revealed how cutting out meat, dairy, and other animal products can improve your skin, kidney function, and gut health.

And although following a vegan diet isn’t achievable for all, cutting down on animal by-products or choosing to have just one vegan day per week can help make an impact. Whether a long-term vegan or just starting out for the new year, people looking to improve their health and diet are being told of the health benefits they may experience.

According to Ashleigh Tosh, health and nutrition expert at Prepped Pots, with so many looking to cut meat and dairy out of their diet to follow the Veganuary trend in the new year, we wanted to share some of the health benefits of making the switch.

“Of course, strictly going vegan isn’t achievable for all, but making simple changes like cutting out some meat or upping the veggies in your diet could make an impact on your health.”

The Perks of Going Vegan

1. Nutrient-rich

Following a vegan diet is often richer in certain nutrients and vitamins. Making the switch will lead you to rely more heavily on other foods and replacements like whole grains, vegetables, beans, peas, and nuts, contributing to a higher daily intake of essential nutrients. Fibre, antioxidants, magnesium, and vitamins A, C, and E are all more prevalent in vegan diets.

2. Gut health

Choosing to eat a vegan diet may help to improve your gut health. Research suggests by changing the foods we eat, we can change our gut microbiome for the better. Eating a vegan diet encourages the beneficial microbes to flourish and increases the different types of microbes that live there. The more diverse your diet, the more adaptable your microbiome becomes to fighting off disease.

3. Kidney function

Those following a vegan diet tend to have lower blood sugar levels which may lead to a lower risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Even choosing to decrease your intake of animal products could reduce your blood sugar levels.

4. Skin improvements

Vegan diets are antioxidant-rich and contain skin-supporting nutrients which may make a noticeable difference to your skin. Plant-based foods are rich in vitamin C, vitamin E, and phenolic acids which can contribute to oxidant defense and lower inflammation.

5. Heart health

Reducing your intake of meat and dairy products opens you up to a diet packed with legumes, wholegrains, fruit, and vegetables which has been said to reduce the risk of heart problems. Studies have revealed going vegan for an extended period could cut your risk of cardiovascular disease.

6. Anti-inflammatory

Vegans who consume high quantities of fruits and vegetables often have lower inflammatory markers when compared to meat eaters. Meat eaters looking to reduce inflammation should look to add more vegetables to their diet.

Have you ever considered ditching animal byproducts and embracing the plant-based life or at least going vegan even if it’s once or twice a week? How has your experience been so far?