Plant-based diets are the new fad in Bahrain?

TDT | Manama                       

The Daily Tribune – www.newsofbahrain.com    

Staff Reporter

Globally, the demand for plant-based products is on the rise, and Bahrain is not far behind, where the vegan lifestyle is picking pace. The growing number of vegan outlets and options available in Bahrain points fingers at this trend.

And according to Moayyed Feroze, coach and co-founder of The Healthy Conscience, “Bahrain is one of the best places for vegans in the region.” Feroze told the Daily Tribune that there is a surge in the people of the Kingdom switching to vegan diets, and there is a plant-based alternative for “almost every type of food you can think of, so you do not have to miss out on your favourite foods.”

“I used to be a meat eater, and transitioning to a vegan lifestyle has helped me and many of my clients on our fitness journey in ways we could not imagine,” Feroze confirms. Further explaining, Feroze said a plant-based diet means plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, beans, legumes, nuts, and seeds.

“As vegan diets often rely heavily on these staples, they tend to be higher in vitamins, minerals, phytochemicals, and fibre. Healthy vegan diets have vitamins B1, C, and E, folic acid, magnesium, and iron. Also, they are low in cholesterol and saturated fats.” Feroze noted that veganism is not only a health benefit but is also a sustainable lifestyle. Animal rearing, according to Feroze, is a leading cause of environmental damage.

“The intensification of the industry in recent years has resulted in myriad issues, and among these are the extreme abuse of farmed animals, antibiotic resistance, and zoonotic viruses.” Feroze also points out that the environmental destruction caused by animal agriculture far outweighs any benefits, especially “for those who live in developed nations with access to a wide variety of foods.” However, there are also risks.

“There are some vitamins and nutrients that we should pay special attention to if giving up animal proteins. “These include five B vitamins- niacin, thiamine, riboflavin, vitamin B6, and vitamin b12. Supplementation and fortified foods can provide all the nutrients easily. Ensure regular blood work during the first year of transition.”

“Many believe it can be intimidating to start a vegan lifestyle or diet; however, there are small changes you can make on a daily to ensure an easy transition. Removing small amounts of meat or dairy one day a week can help the transition.

“Changing one meal at a time, having vegan breakfasts, or changing one product at a time by swapping cow’s milk for almond or soya milk can also be another small change.” In 2021, participants of a survey commissioned by NSF, 88% of them, said they expect demand for plant-based products to increase. Additionally, 74% said they thought consumers choose plant-based for a healthier lifestyle, while 60% believed it’s more environmentally friendly.