At Ripe, we believe in the power of seasonal fruits and vegetables.
A plant-heavy diet can provide everything we need to live healthy, happy lives. However, under half of people in the UK report intentionally trying to eat healthily.
With that in mind, here are 24 compelling reasons to embrace a plant-based diet and incorporate more plant-based foods into your meals in 2024.
24 Reasons to Eat More Plants
1. Healthier Heart
Plant-based diets are associated with lower risks of heart disease, reduced cholesterol levels, and improved cardiovascular health. These diets are typically low in saturated and trans fats, contributing to lowered cholesterol levels.
2. Lower Blood Pressure
Plant-based foods are often lower in sodium, which can help regulate blood pressure and support heart health. Plant-based diets can have a positive impact on blood pressure regulation.
3. Weight Management
A plant-based diet rich in fibre and nutrients can aid in weight management and promote a healthy body weight. A diet focused on whole foods, lean proteins, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help you maintain a healthy weight or achieve weight loss goals. This can lead to increased self-confidence and reduced strain on your joints and organs.
4. Diabetes Prevention
Plant-based diets may help lower the risk of type 2 diabetes and improve insulin sensitivity. Adherence to plant-based diets has been associated with a lower risk of developing type 2 diabetes in both men and women.
5. Improved Digestion
The fibre content in plant-based foods supports healthy digestion and may reduce the risk of digestive issues. Fibre aids in promoting regular bowel movements, preventing constipation, and maintaining a healthy gut environment.
6. Enhanced Gut Health
Plant-based diets promote a diverse gut microbiome, which is crucial for overall health and immune function. Research has emphasised the link between a diverse gut microbiome and improved intestinal barrier integrity (layers of cells and mucus allowing nutrient absorption and blocking the entry of pathogens).
7. Cancer Prevention
Some plant foods contain compounds that have been linked to a lower risk of certain types of cancer. Research highlights the potential role of plant foods in reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease, cancer, and mortality. “Ultra processed foods are likely to negatively impact our health including our risk for cancer” were the findings of a study from the School of Public Health.
8. Reduced Inflammation
Plant-based diets have anti-inflammatory effects due to high levels of antioxidants and phytochemicals. These compounds help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the body. By emphasising whole, unprocessed plant foods, such as fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds, individuals can potentially lower chronic inflammation levels and decrease the risk of inflammatory-related diseases (such as rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, and Alziehmer’s).
9. Better Energy Levels
Nutrient-dense plant foods provide sustained energy without the energy crashes associated with processed foods. Complex carbohydrates from plant sources release energy gradually, supporting stable blood sugar levels and leading to enhanced energy and concentration.
10. Strong Bones
Plant-based diets can provide essential nutrients like calcium, magnesium, and vitamin K for bone health. Whilst dairy products are commonly associated with bone health, plant sources such as leafy greens, nuts, seeds, and fortified plant-based milk also offer these nutrients.
11. Improved Skin Health
Nutrient-rich plant foods provide vitamins and antioxidants that promote healthy and glowing skin. Vitamins like A, C, and E play essential roles in skin health by protecting against oxidative stress causing skin ageing (also leading to fatigue, IBS, and memory loss) and supporting collagen production (responsible for healthy bones and skin).
12. Mood Enhancement
Eating more fruit and vegetables can positively impact mood and mental wellbeing. Incorporating foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and vitamins can support brain health and help manage stress and anxiety. These nutrients support brain function, mood regulation, and reduced inflammation.
13. Brain Health
Plant-based diets rich in omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and vitamins support cognitive function and brain health. Omega-3s, in particular, support cognitive function, memory, and mood regulation. Antioxidants protect brain cells from oxidative damage (which can cause neurological decline, including Parkinson’s disease). Nutrient-dense foods can positively impact your mood, cognitive function, and mental clarity.
14. Longevity
Studies suggest that a plant-based diet may contribute to increased life expectancy and healthy ageing. Eating more fruit and vegetables may contribute to reduced risks of chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and certain cancers. By lowering disease risk factors, plant-based diets may support a longer and healthier lifespan.
15. Ethical Considerations
Choosing plant-based options supports animal welfare and reduces the demand for factory farming. Many individuals choose plant-based diets to reduce the demand for animal products and promote ethical food consumption.
16. Environmental Impact
Plant-based diets have a lower carbon footprint and reduced environmental strain compared to animal-based diets. Animal agriculture contributes significantly to greenhouse gas emissions, deforestation, and water usage. By choosing plant-based options, individuals can contribute to a more sustainable planet.
17. Sustainable Resource Use
Plant-based foods require fewer resources like water and land compared to animal agriculture. Livestock production demands significant amounts of water and land for feed and grazing. Plant-based diets are more environmentally efficient and contribute to resource conservation.
18. Lower Risk of Antibiotic Resistance
Plant-based diets reduce demand for antibiotics in animal agriculture, decreasing the risk of antibiotic-resistant bacteria development. This benefits both human health and the environment by preserving the effectiveness of antibiotics.
19. Allergen Avoidance
Plant-based diets can be helpful for individuals with allergies or intolerances to animal products. Eliminating common allergens like dairy and eggs can reduce the risk of allergic reactions and digestive discomfort.
20. Variety of Flavors
Plant-based diets offer a wide range of flavours, textures, and culinary experiences through diverse fruits, vegetables, grains, and legumes. Exploring new plant foods can make meals exciting and satisfying.
21. Improved Athletic Performance
Plant-based diets can provide the energy and nutrients needed for optimal athletic performance. Carbohydrates from plant sources fuel workouts, while plant proteins aid in muscle repair and growth. Antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds in plant foods support post-exercise recovery. Adequate planning can ensure sufficient protein intake.
22. Diverse Meals
Exploring plant-based diets allows you to discover a wide range of international cuisines and flavours. Exploring diverse plant foods offers various flavours, textures, and culinary experiences, promoting creativity in cooking and expanding dietary options for a well-rounded diet.
23. Financial Savings
Staples like grains, legumes, and seasonal fruits and vegetables are typically affordable compared to animal products, making plant-based food more cost-effective. Reduced reliance on expensive animal proteins can lead to financial savings while maintaining a nutritious diet.
24. Personalised Approach
Plant-based eating allows for customization to match individual health goals, preferences, and dietary needs. You can tailor your plant-based food choices to align with specific health goals, dietary preferences, and ethical considerations.
Whether aiming for wellbeing improvement, more ethical food habits, or addressing specific health conditions, plant-based diets can be customised to suit your individual needs while still providing a variety of nutrient-rich plant foods. Collectively, these points emphasise the profound impact of plant-based eating on personal wellbeing, global harmony, and environmental stewardship.
How to Eat More Plants
Changing up your diet can be a struggle if you don’t know where to start. The benefits are obvious, but if you’re looking to start 2024 with healthy goals and want to stick to them, Ripe can help.
At Ripe, we’re committed to fresh fruits and vegetables getting shipped to your doorstep. Whether you want to eat organically at home, or evangelise to everyone at work, a Ripe gift box or office box is fully customisable. You might even be able to order a handwritten card with your purchase!
Delivering Freshness and Sustainability to Your Door
As a London-wide delivery service, we can get fresh and locally-sourced produce wherever and whenever you need. At Ripe, we believe in the power of healthy eating to let you excel, and we’re passionate about shipping seasonal fruits and vegetables, as well as healthy snacks, to homes and workplaces all over the city.
We’re committed to high standards of produce and delivery. We can take some of the confusion away from going sustainable by getting it all straight to your door.
How Ripe’s Delivery Service Can Get You Healthier in 2024
- Convenience and Accessibility
Ripe eliminates the need for frequent trips to grocery stores. With doorstep deliveries, you'll have easy access to a variety of fresh produce, making it more likely for you to include fruits and vegetables in your daily meals.
- Increased Consumption.
Having a consistent supply of fresh fruits and vegetables encourages regular consumption. With a variety of options delivered to your doorstep, you're more likely to incorporate these nutrient-rich foods into your meals and snacks, leading to a healthier diet overall.
- Diverse Selection.
We offer a diverse range of fruits and vegetables, including seasonal and locally sourced options. This variety exposes you to different nutrients, flavours, and textures, making your meals more enjoyable and nutritious.
- Encourages Regular Snacking.
Having readily available fruits and vegetables encourages healthier snacking habits. Instead of reaching for processed snacks, you can grab a piece of our fruit or some sliced veggies.
Incorporating a fruit and vegetable delivery service into your routine can simplify your journey towards a healthier lifestyle in 2024. By making fresh produce easily accessible, such services encourage consistent consumption of nutrient-packed foods that support your overall health and wellness goals.
For more information, visit our shop page to start eating and living better.
