A study published inNutrientsfound that vegan diets are best for gut hormones and satiety,according to a press releasefrom the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine (PCRM).
Researchers compared a vegan meal with a meal containing meat and cheese on hormone levels in a group of 60 men: 20 with obesity, 20 with type 2 diabetes, and 20 who were healthy. The meals contained the same amount of calories and the same ratio of macronutrients.
Compared to the non-vegan meal, the vegan meal increased beneficial gastrointestinal hormones, which are involved in the regulation of glucose metabolism, insulin secretion, energy homeostasis, satiety, and weight management.
The press release says that study participants across all three groups also self-reported that the vegan meal increased satiety. The researchers noted that vegan meals are often rich in fiber, which adds bulk to a diet without adding extra calories.
Hana Kahleova, M.D., Ph.D., director of clinical research at the PCRM, said, “The fact that simple meal choices can increase the secretion of these healthy hormones has important implications for those with type 2 diabetes or weight problems. This study adds to the mounting evidence that plant-based diets can help manage and prevent type 2 diabetes and obesity.”
