What Is A Planetary Health Diet That Harvard Suggests Can Help You Achieve Long & Healthy Life?

A new study by Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health has revealed that the Planetary Health Diet can reduce chances of early death by 30% and is even good for the environment. It suggests that having less processed plant foods with moderate consumption of meat and dairy can be good for your health and the environment. This study was published in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition and here’s everything you need to know about it.

What Is Planetary Health Diet Suggested By New Havard Study?

Created by the EAT-Lancet Commission in 2019, the Planetary Health Diet (PHD) was created keeping both the planet and the people living on it in mind. This revolutionary diet is believed to be healthy for both people and the planet. Now, a study led by Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health has revealed that this diet can lower the risk of premature death and also lower environmental impact.

They used data from over 2,00,000 participants in the Nurses’ Health Study I and II and the Health Professionals Follow-Up Study. They evaluated long-term health data of over 34 years for this study. According to a report in India Today, they found that participants in the “top 10% of PHD adherence had a 30% lower risk of premature death” when compared to those in the lowest 10% in the research. In fact, they even faced lower chances of encountering cancer, heart disease, and lung disease.

Furthermore, the study also showed how this diet is good for the planet. As per the data shared, people who follow Planetary Health Diet had a lower environmental impact. With 29% lower greenhouse gas emissions, 21% lower fertiliser needs, and 51% lower cropland use, this diet is also good for the planet.

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Foods You Can Enjoy In This New Diet

Now, coming to the most important part – what can you eat under the Planetary Health Diet? As per Harvard’s study, you can eat whole grains, fruits, vegetables, nuts, legumes, and meat and dairy products as part of this diet. Although, it is to be noted that meat and dairy products are advised to be taken in moderate to smaller proportions.

As per this diet, an average adult requires 2500 kcal/per day. This, of course, varies based on age, gender, activity levels, and health profiles but gives a general idea about calorie consumption. Harvard’s study further suggested that this dietary pattern is also good because it can be adapted to different preferences and contexts. You can personalise it and use it to mitigate the risk of poor nutrition and environmental damage at the same time.

What are your thoughts about this diet? Let us know in the comments!

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