Fibre: Why it is a key part of a healthy diet
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Dr Earim Chaudry recommends trying Veganuary, or at least eating less meat, during the month of January. “Switching to a plant-based diet can be a great option for those looking to lose weight or those wanting a healthier lifestyle,” he said. By keeping trim, you are reducing the likelihood of numerous health conditions, from heart disease to diabetes. If, however, you already have such conditions, adhering to a more plant-based diet can help to improve the conditions.
“Red meats are often high in fats and cholesterol, which can cause weight gain,” warned Dr Chaudry.
“A vegetarian diet can do wonders for your skin,” said Dr Chaudry. “Fruits and vegetables are high in antioxidants which can prevent ageing.”
The doctor added that a plant-based diet can also help to remove skin imperfections, as “red meat and dairy can contribute to acne”.
When it comes to vegetables, it’s not only their antioxidants that can work wonders on your health.
Vegetables are also rich in fibre and are packed with plant compounds that can protect you against disease, which could otherwise make you look ill.
A vegan friendly snack to consider is nuts, which are loaded with vitamins, minerals and beneficial fats.
“What’s more, they provide phytosterols, which are plant compounds that help lower cholesterol by blocking its absorption in your intestines,” added Dr Chaudry.
Dr Chaudry added that alongside Veganuary, it’s worth attempting Dry January too.
There are more benefits to cutting out the sauce than a clear head and more money.
“Alcohol consumption can have negative impacts on many other aspects of your life, including your mental and physical health,” said Dr Chaudry.
“Cutting down on alcohol can lower blood sugar, increase fitness levels and also help with weight loss.”
Dr Earim Chaudry is the Medical Director of men’s health platform Manual.
Meanwhile, naturopathic nutrition practitioner, Jess Shand, highlighted the importance of a healthy diet on gut health.
“The gut is made up of literally trillions of bacteria strains and microbes, which is what makes up the gut microbiome,” she explained.
“It’s so important we prioritise the health of our gut via the food we nourish ourselves with.”
Shand added: “Making simple improvements to your diet by increasing dietary fibre and boosting your meals with an abundance of colourful, nutrient-dense whole foods is simple yet powerful enough to make a difference.”
A big fan of “cruciferous vegetables”, Shand recommends eating: broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, bok choy, kale, rocket, radish and Brussels sprouts.
These vegetables are said to “feed the gut, aid digestion, and help to flush out toxins”.
Shand warns that an unhealthy gut can lead to bloating, excess gas, and loose stools.
Aside from eating healthy foods (and limiting unhealthy foods), Shand suggests drinking two litres of water daily and moving the body more frequently.
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