The effects of plant-based diets on the body and the brain: a systematic review

Year Published: 2019

Transl Psychiatry

Evelyn Medawar, Sebastian Huhn, Arno Villringer, and A. Veronica Witte

This study reviewed the evidence from 27 clinical trials that looked at the effects of plant based diets on overall health of the body and the brain. Plant-based diets in this study included vegan/vegetarian diets that emphasized fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, seeds, and legumes.

Key Findings: There was robust evidence for the protection of plant-based diets for weight status, energy metabolism, and inflammation in both short and moderate-term studies. More research needs to be done on cognitive function, however.