June 30, 2022 – Many families might be changing their diet as the cost of food continues to skyrocket amid the nationwide inflation. Americans will be paying 17% more on food for barbecue this Fourth of July, according to a survey from the American Farm Bureau Federation. Luckily, Debora Duro, M.D., M.S., pediatric gastroenterologist with Broward Health Physician Group, has a healthier solution that could also cure money woes.
Debora Duro, M.D., M.S.
“A plant-based diet is a win-win for everyone, not only will your groceries be cheaper, but you can still get all the nutrients your body needs and gain many health benefits,” said Dr. Duro, program director of pediatric gastroenterology, hepatology and nutrition at Salah Foundation Children’s Hospital at Broward Health Medical Center.
What is a Plant-Based Diet?
A plant-based diet consists of eating from the main source of whole food such as: fruits, vegetables, whole grains and nuts. It is minimal in animal consumption and has zero processed food consumption.
Dr. Duro explains that a plant-based diet is rich in fiber content which is completely absent in the animal world. Through a plant-based diet, people will be consuming protein, fat and carbohydrate from whole food plant-based, she said.
Benefits of a Plant-Based Diet
“There are endless benefits with a plant- based diet, as it completely natural,” Dr. Duro said. “This diet is not just for adults but can be implemented on children, which works perfectly as a prevention on many diseases.”
Some of the top health benefits are:
- It is an-inflammatory diet.
- It increases the immune system.
- It’s anti-aging.
- It’s anti-cancer.
- It has lower cholesterol levels.
- Helps main a low blood sugar due to the fiber content.
- Regulates the gastrointestinal tract track.
To make this diet even more cost friendly Dr. Duro recommends starting your own summer project by cultivating herbs, vegetables and fruits in your backyard.
Is Plant-Based Diet Appropriate for Children?
There is a misconception that children will miss out on the nutrients they need if they implement a plant-based diet, however, according to Dr. Duro children can get all their nutritional needs straight from the source.
“A plant-based diet can help children avoid eating processed foods. It is rich is protein, vitamins, minerals, fiber and calcium,” Dr. Duro said.
Plant-Based Fourth of July Dishes
You don’t have to miss out on your Fourth of July barbecue, if you’re thinking about giving the plant-based diet a try.
Stacy Winton, R.D.
“There are great plant-based burgers and sausages for the grill,” said Stacy Winton, R.D., dietitian at Broward Health Medical Center. “One of my favorite plant-based brands is Beyond Beef; their spicy Italian sausage is delicious,” she said.
Winton also suggests a plant-based tri-color pasta salad. Purchase a veggie pasta and add grilled roasted veggies.
“For your veggies include mushrooms, grape tomatoes, red, yellow, orange and green bell peppers. The brightly colored veggies make a beautiful compliment to the tri-color pasta,” Winton said.
To enhance the flavors of the food, Winton recommends using a vinaigrette dressing.
To learn more about Broward Health’s wellness programs, visit BrowardHealth.org/Wellness.
