What The Health?
is a documentary that explores the impact of animal agriculture on our health. The film looks at the link between meat consumption and some of the most common diseases, such as heart disease, cancer, and diabetes . It also investigates the environmental impact of animal agriculture and the potential for plant-based diets to improve our health and protect the environment.
The film features interviews with some of the leading experts on health and sustainability, including Dr. T. Colin Campbell, Dr. Caldwell Esselstyn, and Dr. Dean Ornish. They offer insights into the connection between diet and disease, which ultimately questions the practices of leading health and pharmaceutical organizations.
The documentary has been very controversial with some accusing it of being alarmist and others praising it for its bold approach to the issues. Regardless of your opinion on the film, it is important to have an open dialogue about the impact of animal agriculture on our health and the environment but it is an important step in starting a conversation about how we can improve our diets and protect the planet. It was truly an eye opener for me as I live in North Carolina where the majority of pork comes from. The conditions that the animals live in is heart wrenching and the damage the feces does to the environment and outlying population is alarming.
A plant based diet for people with certain health conditions could greatly impact their quality of life as seen in the documentary. Let’s explore this lifestyle further and see if its right for you.
A plant-based diet is one that focuses on plants for food. This includes fruits, vegetables, grains, legumes, and nuts. It does not include meat, poultry, fish, dairy, or eggs. Some people choose a plant-based diet for health reasons. They may want to lower their risk for heart disease, cancer, or diabetes. Others choose this diet for environmental reasons. They may want to reduce their impact on the planet by eating food that requires less resources to produce. Whatever your reason for choosing a plant-based diet, it is important to make sure that you are getting all the nutrients your body needs. This includes protein, calcium, iron, and vitamin B12.
If you are thinking about making the switch to a plant-based diet, there are a few things you can do to make the transition easier.
- Start by adding more plants to your diet. Add an extra serving of fruits or vegetables to each meal. Or, try meatless Mondays and make a delicious plant-based meal for your family.
- Find plant-based substitutes for your favorite foods. There are plant-based versions of almost everything these days, from cheese to ice cream.
- Educate yourself about nutrition. Make sure you are getting all the nutrients your body needs by reading food labels and talking to a registered dietitian.
- Find a support group. There are many online and in-person groups that can provide support and advice as you make the switch to a plant-based diet.
A plant-based diet may not be for everyone, but it is worth considering if you are looking for a healthier way to eat. There are many resources available to help you make the transition, so don’t be afraid to ask for help. And remember, it’s okay to take things one step at a time. Small changes can make a big difference in your health and the health of the planet.
How do you feel about a plant based diet? Is this something you could see yourself doing long term? Sound off in the comments below!