Plant Powered Impact | Life Alive Organic Cafe

The more we learn about people, food and mood, the more it’s clear that what we eat is central to living the way we want to live it—filled with energy, optimism and simply feeling good. We believe eating positively—in a way that fosters joy, nourishes your body and respects the planet—sets us on a delicious path toward living positively.

To us, eating positively includes enjoying real, whole food that is rich in plant nutrients with an intention to consume less animal products and refined foods. This way of eating has been proven to have a significant impact on personal wellness.

What is a Plant-Forward Diet?

At Life Alive, we view a plant-forward diet as a diverse and nutrient-dense way of eating with a focus on abundance rather than restriction.

Here are the Basics:

Emphasizes whole, minimally processed foods
Focuses on a diverse array of plant nutrients from vegetables, fruits, whole grains, legumes, nuts & seeds
Limits, but doesn't necessarily restrict, animal products
Limits refined foods like added sugar, white flour & processed oils

What are the Benefits of a Plant-Forward Diet?

The benefits of a plant-forward diet can be felt immediately. In fact, we consistently hear from guests that our dishes fill them with the energy they need to tackle their day. However, the long-term benefits range from a reduced risk of heart disease from lower blood pressure and lower cholesterol to a reduced risk of diabetes and cancer. Let’s take a deeper dive into these benefits below.

Reduced Risk of Heart Disease

Eating a plant-forward diet may reduce the risk of developing cardiovascular disease by up to 16%. This is because meat contains saturated fat, which can contribute to heart issues when eaten in excess. A plant-forward diet is also high in vitamins and minerals like magnesium, potassium, and fiber, all of which help reduce blood pressure & cholesterol levels.

Lower Blood Pressure

High blood pressure can increase the risk for health issues including heart disease, stroke and type 2 diabetes. Several studies have shown that a plant-rich diet can reduce blood pressure, in turn lowering the risk of these health conditions.

Lower Cholesterol Levels

High cholesterol levels can restrict blood flow and potentially lead to heart attack, stroke, or heart disease. Studies show that a plant-forward diet can reduce your LDL (“bad”) cholesterol levels by as much as 10-15%.

Reduced Risk of Type 2 Diabetes

A plant-based diet has also been proven to reduce the risk of developing diabetes by 34%. This is because the majority of foods included in a plant-forward diet are lower in saturated fats and higher in complex carbohydrates than foods sourced from animals.

Reduced Risk of Cancer

The American Institute for Cancer Research says the best way to source cancer-protective nutrients, including fiber, vitamins, minerals, and phytochemical, is to eat a diet rich in vegetables, fruit, grains, beans, nuts and seeds.

The Plant-Forward Bottom Line

Above all, we believe food should be crave-worthy, which is why we craft recipes that taste as good as they make you feel. After all, the best diet is one that not only delivers the nutrients you needs to thrive, but also fills you with joy.

Sources: