In a recent study, over 200,000 individuals were followed for up to 34 years to investigate the health and environmental impacts of a planetary diet. The results showed that those who followed a diet favoring vegetarian food had a lower risk of premature death and environmental burden. The study, led by Harvard University researchers, confirmed that adhering to a planetary diet reduced greenhouse emissions, decreased the need for fertilizers, and minimized the use of cultivated land.
The participants in the study were scored based on how closely their diets aligned with the planetary diet, which emphasizes plant-based foods while allowing for a moderate amount of meat and dairy products. Those who followed the planetary diet most closely had over a 30 percent lower risk of premature death compared to those whose diets deviated the most from the recommended guidelines. The reduced risk of mortality extended to various causes of death, including cancer, heart disease, and lung disease.
The environmental benefits of a planetary diet were substantial, with greenhouse emissions reduced by 29 percent, fertilizers needed 21 percent less, and farmland usage decreased by 51 percent among those who adhered to the diet. The findings highlight the potential of a planetary diet to improve both human health and environmental sustainability.
Researchers estimate that switching to a planetary diet could prevent millions of premature deaths each year and have a positive impact on the environment through reduced resource consumption. By embracing a plant-based diet that prioritizes plant-based foods and limits meat and dairy consumption, individuals can contribute to mitigating the harmful effects of climate change and improving overall well-being.
In conclusion, this study underscores the importance of dietary choices in promoting a healthier future for individuals and the planet. By making sustainable food choices that prioritize plant-based foods over animal products, individuals can reduce their carbon footprint while improving their own health outcomes.
