Planetary Health Diet Approach vs. Vegetarian Diet - Comparison

Vegetarianism is a method of nourishment that involves excluding all varieties of meat, including fish and seafood, from the diet. Consuming animal products such as eggs and dairy is allowed. There are numerous reasons why individuals opt for this type of diet, it is typically a personal matter. It may involve health care, environmental concern, opposition to killing and mistreating farm animals, cultural, religious, and personal preferences. Vegetarianism is not a novel concept. The notion of a vegetarian diet has been known for centuries. In ancient Egypt, a vegetarian diet was used for purifying the body in both medical and ritual contexts. This way of nourishment is particularly prevalent in Indian culture. Hindus oppose killing and violence against animals. To this day, most Hindus consider a vegetarian diet as the ideal mode of sustenance and refrain from consuming meat.

In 2019, the EAT-Lancet Commission published its report, which aimed to identify a way of eating that is healthy for humans, environmentally friendly, and feeds the growing world population, which is expected to reach 10 billion by 2050. The authors note that currently unhealthy diets pose a greater risk to health and mortality than alcohol, drugs, tobacco, and dangerous sexual contact combined. Therefore, it has become necessary to take action to protect the environment and protect humanity from malnutrition and disease. In the report, a way of eating was presented, called the Planetary Health Diet or, in short, the planetary diet. The principles of this diet were shown on a plate, where half is occupied by fruits and vegetables. On the other half are whole grains, plant-based protein (legumes, nuts), plant oils containing unsaturated fatty acids, moderate amounts of meat and dairy, and minimal amounts of starchy vegetables and sugar. Researchers emphasize that it is important to limit the consumption of meat, especially red meat, dairy, and starchy vegetables, as the current consumption of these products is significantly higher than recommended. The authors emphasize that the goal of the planetary diet is not to promote the consumption of specific foods, but to establish food groups with consumption rates that should be adapted to local conditions and traditions. The planetary diet is less restrictive than vegetarian or vegan diets. Flexible rules should allow everyone to adapt the diet to their preferences and cultural conditions. The report also addressed the topic of sustainable food production. It is worth noting that meat production has a significant impact on the environment, requires huge water resources, and leaves a large carbon footprint. Actions are needed, including the dissemination and introduction of the principles of the planetary diet on a wider scale and the reduction of food losses and waste, which fits well into the current Zero Waste movement. The last action is improving production practices through optimal selection of crop plants, fertilization of plants based on the fertilizer balance, effective water management, and efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and support biodiversity.

It should be noted that veganism can also be environmentally and health-friendly, provided it consists of high-quality food products. Regardless of the chosen method of nourishment, it is advisable to consider the significant impact on health and environment of what we consume. Caring for the planet's well-being doesn't necessitate drastic changes and complete abandonment of favorite dishes. Even the smallest modifications that allow for improvement of habits will yield a notable effect.