A recent scientific review published in Nutrition Reviews has found that people who choose a vegetarian diet are likely to have body weights as much as 20 percent less than non-vegetarians.
This latest review, which examined findings from 87 previous studies, found vegetarians experience lower rates of heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure and other conditions linked to being overweight and obese. While rates of obesity in the general population continue to increase, the prevalence of obesity among vegetarians ranges from 0 to 6 percent.
Researchers also found that a low-fat vegan diet promoted weight loss, regardless of exercise. A low-fat vegan diet was found to lead to weight loss of about 1 pound per week, even without additional exercise or limits on portion sizes, calories, or carbohydrates.
These latest findings come just weeks after researchers at Oxford University found that meat-eaters who switched to a plant-based diet gained less weight over a period of five years.
All research on this web site is the property of Leslie Beck Nutrition Consulting Inc. and is protected by copyright. Keep in mind that research on these matters continues daily and is subject to change. The information presented is not intended as a substitute for medical treatment. It is intended to provide ongoing support of your healthy lifestyle practices.