Scientists from the University of Vienna have discovered that although many vegans exercise more than the average person, they often abuse unhealthy processed foods. The results of the research were published in the journal recently. nutrients.
Veganism is a plant-based form of diet that eliminates all foods and animal by-products, not just meat.
Researchers conducted an online survey of 516 people with an average age of 28 who had been vegan for at least three months at the start of the study.
It has previously been shown that people who consume predominantly processed foods have a 29% higher overall mortality rate, a 51% higher risk of being overweight or obese, a 29% higher risk of cardiovascular disease, and a 74% higher risk of type 2 diabetes. %.
In this context, the research team made a distinction between “healthy” and “proper” vegan diets. Convenience-oriented vegans (53%) consumed more processed meat and fish alternatives, sauces, cakes and other desserts, processed foods, juices, and refined grains. About half of the participants adhered to such a diet.
The other half were more health conscious and ate more vegetables, fruits, protein and dairy substitutes, potatoes, whole grains, vegetable oils and fats, and cooked more with fresh ingredients.
Both groups seemed more physically active than the general population. But those who followed a healthy diet were more active than those who loved convenience foods.