A recent study published in the journal Nature Food reveals that a balanced omnivore diet that includes vegetables, fruits, meat, and dairy may promote better overall health, as individuals who follow such a diet have better health outcomes when compared to vegans, vegetarians, or pescatarians. Those following an omnivore diet tend to consume a wider range of nutrients requiring a lower risk of nutrient deficiencies. Participants on an omnivore diet had a lower risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. However, everyone’s nutritional needs are different, and consulting with a healthcare provider is essential for making significant changes in diet.
New Study Reveals Omnivore Diet Can Improve Overall Health
For many years, there has been a debate around whether an omnivore diet – one that includes both animal and plant-based foods – is healthy. However, a recent study has found that an omnivore diet may actually promote better overall health.
The study, published in the journal Nature Food, analyzed data from over 177,000 people in the UK. The findings showed that those who had a balanced omnivore diet – one that included vegetables, fruits, meat, and dairy – had better health outcomes than those who followed a vegan, vegetarian, or pescatarian diet.
The Benefits of an Omnivore Diet
The study found a number of benefits associated with an omnivore diet, including:
- Better gut health: Those on an omnivore diet had a higher diversity of gut bacteria, which is linked to improved digestion and a stronger immune system.
- Higher vitamin and mineral intake: Participants on an omnivore diet tended to consume a wider range of nutrients, including vitamin B12, which is commonly found in animal products.
- Lower risk of nutrient deficiencies: Following an omnivore diet can help to reduce the risk of nutrient deficiencies, which are more common in restrictive diets such as veganism.
- Reduced risk of chronic diseases: The study found that participants on an omnivore diet had a lower risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, stroke, and diabetes.
FAQs
What is an omnivore diet?
An omnivore diet is one that includes both animal and plant-based foods. This can include vegetables, fruits, meat, dairy, and fish.
Why is an omnivore diet beneficial?
The study found that an omnivore diet can promote better gut health, higher vitamin and mineral intake, a lower risk of nutrient deficiencies, and a reduced risk of chronic diseases.
What are the risks of following an exclusively plant-based diet?
While a plant-based diet can be healthy if managed properly, there are some risks associated with following an exclusively plant-based diet. These include a higher risk of nutrient deficiencies, particularly of vitamin B12, and a higher risk of osteoporosis due to lower calcium intake.
Can an omnivore diet be sustainable?
Yes, an omnivore diet can be sustainable if it is based on a balanced intake of plant-based and animal-based foods. It is important to choose high-quality, sustainable sources of meat and dairy and to prioritize plant-based foods in the diet.
Overall, the findings of this study suggest that an omnivore diet can be a healthy choice for individuals. However, it is important to remember that everyone’s nutritional needs are different, and it is best to consult with a healthcare provider before making any significant changes to your diet.