California, US

New research on identical twins suggests that a brief two-month vegan diet led to lower insulin, weight loss, and improved heart health. This study adds more support to the idea that plant-based diets can be good for people.

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Researchers at Stanford University studied 22 pairs of identical twins to compare genetics and lifestyle. One group had a mix of healthy foods, including meat, while the other stuck to a plant-based diet. The goal was to see how each diet affected their health.

For the first four weeks, participants received prepared meals with a mix of healthy foods. The next four weeks required them to shop and cook for themselves. The focus was on feeling satisfied without strict calorie limits, according to Science Alert.

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Heart health improvements

Both groups improved their heart health, but the plant-based diet group showed the most benefits. They saw a 20 per cent drop in insulin and lower levels of LDL cholesterol, which is linked to heart issues.

The vegan group reduced LDL cholesterol from 110.7 to 95.5 mg/dL, while the other group went from 118.5 to 116.1 mg/dL. Weight loss likely played a role in the cholesterol drop for the vegans.

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The study noticed a small drop in vitamin B12 levels in the short term. While not a big concern, it's a reminder to watch nutrient levels on a vegan diet and consider supplements.

This study supports the idea that plant-based diets offer various health benefits, including weight loss, better blood pressure, and lower risks of diabetes and heart problems. It suggests gradually including more plant-based foods in your meals for better health.

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While the study doesn't say everyone should go vegan, it highlights the advantages of adding more plant-based foods to your diet.

(With inputs from agencies)