Plant-Based Foods May Help Prevent Long-Term Weight Gain, Study Suggests

If you’ve been considering cutting carbohydrates from your diet, a new study published in JAMA Network Open might make you rethink your approach. The study found that people who follow a low-carb diet and focus on plant-based foods instead of animal-based proteins tend to experience less long-term weight gain.

The research, conducted by Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, analyzed data from 123,000 participants who followed a low-carb diet. The study found that those who emphasized plant-based foods and healthy carbohydrates and fats had slower long-term weight gain compared to those who consumed diets heavy in animal products or refined carbs.

Lead author Binkai Liu highlighted the importance of looking beyond simple questions about carbohydrates and considering how the composition of diets affects health over the years. The study also found that the associations were particularly significant for participants who were younger, overweight, or inactive.

Registered dietitian Toby Amidor emphasized the importance of incorporating more plant-based foods into diets, regardless of whether you follow a low-carb eating plan. Research has long shown the benefits of plant-rich diets, including the Mediterranean diet, which has been linked to weight loss and reduced risks of chronic diseases.

While a plant-based diet is beneficial, it’s essential to ensure you’re still getting essential nutrients found in animal protein. Consulting a healthcare provider before making any dietary changes is always a good idea, especially for those with specific health conditions that may require adjustments to their eating habits.

Overall, the study sheds light on the importance of choosing plant-based foods over animal-based proteins when following a low-carb diet, not just for weight management but for long-term health benefits as well.