THE VALUE OF GOING VEGAN...

TIPS FOR TRYING A PLANT-BASED DIET LATER IN LIFE. BY CAMILLA FOSTER

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IT'S World Vegan Day on November 1 and you might be thinking about exploring a plant-based diet for yourself. But what real health benefits can it offer, especially later in life?

"Most guidelines, like The Eatwell Guide, recommend eating more plant foods like fruits, vegetables and legumes, and there is also quite a lot of observational evidence linking plant-rich diets to longevity, lower risk of heart disease and certain cancers," says Katie Sanders, Doctify-rated dietitian and nutritionist.

"Research also suggests that a greater plant food intake can be associated with lots of things, including improved gut health, heart health and lower blood pressure levels. Eating lots of fibre and plant-rich foods can also help balance blood sugars and improve insulin sensitivity."

The key to a nourishing plant-based diet, stresses Katie, is planning. "It needs to be well-planned to make sure that you're getting enough protein, calcium and things like vitamin D, iron and vitamin B12, which become even more important as we age."