East Becomes West

Chinese and other Asian people have long benefited from healthy diets and lifestyles as a result of their native culture. However, according to the "China Study II", presented recently at the University of Cornell, these benefits may be lost as the Chinese diet becomes more westernised.

Researchers highlighted the fact that Chinese diets have traditionally been plant-based, but are now including more and more animal products.

Research findings included the following:
- Breast cancer is associated with dietary fat (which increases as animal protein intake increases).
- Low levels of green vegetables in the diet lead to higher risk from cardiovascular disease.
- Diseases that are more prevalent in the West are mainly associated with high cholesterol levels. Cholesterol levels are higher where the diet includes more animal-based products.

Dr Colin Campbell made the following recommendations when presenting the study:

Variety is key

Eat a wide variety of plant-based foods. Common foods alone do not contain all the nutrients we need, so eating a wide variety ensures our nutritional needs are covered.

You don't need meat

As long as your diet is varied, and you eat the right quantity and quality of plant-based foods, you don't need meat in the diet to eat well.

Keep it simple and natural

Cooking, seasoning and processing can all take out precious nutrients from even the healthiest of foods. Prepare your own food and keep it close to its natural state for maximum benefit.

Friday, 10 August 2001