5 Tips Dietitians Want You To Know About a Plant-Based Diet

Today is National Registered Dietitian Day! At the Physicians Committee, we are so grateful for our team of registered dietitians who support our patients in making the transition to a healthful plant-based diet and who lead our nutrition education initiatives, spreading the word about the power of a plant-based diet to communities around the world!

To celebrate National Registered Dietitian Day, our registered dietitians are sharing some of their favorite health and nutrition tips!

“Eat a plant-based diet! A plant-based diet, rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes, is a great way to achieve good health. These foods are full of fiber, rich in vitamins and minerals, free of cholesterol, and low in calories and saturated fat. Those who eat a plant-based diet lower their risk for heart disease, type 2 diabetes, obesity, and other health conditions.” –Susan Levin, MS, RD, CSSD

“Embrace carbs! Carbohydrates fuel the brain and muscles, and carb-rich foods like fruits, veggies, whole grains, and beans are packed with vitamins, protective phytochemicals, and fiber. But remember: A lollipop is not the same as a lentil: Choose whole foods for optimal health.” –Lee Crosby, RD, LD

“Don’t dwell on protein. Most Americans are actually getting twice the protein their bodies need—which isn’t always a good thing. Diets high in animal protein have been linked to an increased risk for health problems and even early death. Plant-based foods like whole grains, beans, nuts, lentils, and tofu contain all the protein your body needs—without any of the health risks.” –Minh Nguyen, MS, RD

“Eat all the colors of the nutrition rainbow! Fruits and vegetables get their bright colors from pigments that represent a variety of protective compounds that can boost the immune system, brain health, and heart health and even fight some types of cancer. The more naturally colorful your plate is, the better!” –Maggie Neola, RD, LD

“Fill up on fiber! Fiber, which you’ll find only in plant foods, feeds the healthy bacteria in our guts. Gut bacteria may be tiny, but they play a big role in our health—improving immune function, boosting weight loss, reducing inflammation and chronic disease, and even regulating mood! –Meghan Jardine, MS, MBA, RD, LD, CDE