The Prescription to Heal the Planet and Our Bodies: Dr. Shireen Kassam & Dr. Zahra Kassam (both vegans), Part 2 of 2

Today, they will tell us more about eating healthy and the connection between the health of individuals and the climate of our planet.

Let's hear what she advises her patients regarding improving their health outcomes through diet. “I talk to all my patients about the power of lifestyle interventions, including plant-based nutrition.” “And the evidence to us is very clear that plant foods reduce your risk of cancer.” Did you know that adopting a plant-based diet can not only enhance our general wellness but also provide additional advantages in coping with the COVID pandemic? When transitioning to a vegan diet, meeting recommended nutritional criteria is an important aspect to consider. Besides taking vitamin B-12, here are some other suggestions that Dr. Shireen Kassam had. “[…] I think that's the key for any diet pattern, that it's about eating a variety of foods from the four main different food groups, fruits, vegetables, whole grains, beans, and getting enough calories. ”

Following a vegan diet isn't just about safeguarding our personal health, it's also about protecting the well-being of our planet. “And in fact, the WHO has said that climate change is the biggest threat to human health.” “So, I think it is crucial that we raise the awareness (of the connection) between diet choice and climate health.”

Present health statistics show what a leap we could make in the well-being of humanity. “Well, we know that from our decades of data, we know that a healthy whole food, plant-based diet can reduce the incidence of cancer by 15%, cardiovascular disease by 25%, diabetes, and hypertension by 50% to 60%. These are our major chronic diseases.”