The term “plant-based” gets thrown around a lot these days.
It’s often used interchangeably with “healthy,” “nutritious,” and even “vegan.”
But here’s the reality: Plant-based and vegan diets are not actually synonymous.
While vegan diets are generally plant-based, plant-based diets are not, by definition vegan.
What does it mean to be vegan & where did the name come from?
That said, it’s important to note that not all vegan diets are healthy ones.
Summary
What does it mean to be plant-based?
Plant-based dietsare often misunderstood.
The term “plant-based” was introduced in the 1980s, byT.
Then what does whole-foods, plant-based mean?
People who follow a whole-foods, plant-based diet often minimize animal products, as well.
Nutrition and well-being are the cornerstones of this eating style.
What do vegan and plant-based diets have in common?
Think fruits, vegetables, seeds, and more ingredients that come directly from the ground.
When plants are the emphasis, both diets offer nutritional benefits, too.
What’s more, swapping meat in favor of more plants can helplower blood pressure3and cholesterol.
How are they different?
Experts agree that the biggest difference between veganism and plant-based eating is the inclusion of animal products.
However, by definition, a vegan diet excludes all animal products.
Are there foods that are vegan but not plant-based?
(Yes, we’re getting very precise here.)
Are there foods that are plant-based but not vegan?
“Plant-based is open to interpretation and flexibility, whereas veganism is not,” Rodriguez says.
Gorin says wine and honey are also examples of plant-based, but not necessarily vegan, food items.
