• I have diabetes or I am insulin resistant?

  Absolutely. A plant-based diet has been shown to significantly improve control over blood sugar levels and the body's sensitivity to insulin. The high content of fibre and antioxidant and anti-inflammatory substances in a plant-based diet makes it ideal for managing diabetes and preventing long-term complications. Let your doctor know if you are switching to a plant-based diet because you may need to adjust your medication to avoid the risk of hypoglycaemia.Few readers

• I’m overweight?

  Of course. Plant-based foods generally have a lower calorie density compared to animal-based foods. What does that mean? It means that you can eat more and so, feel fuller and more satisfied for the same amount of calories. This makes it easier to lose and maintain a lower weight, if that’s your goal.Few readers

• I have high blood pressure?

  Yes. A plant-based diet has been shown to reduce blood pressure without resorting to medication. How is that possible? A plant-based diet has a low sodium and saturated fat content and a high fibre and potassium intake.Few readers

• I have high cholesterol?

  Of course. Plants don’t have any cholesterol in them so a plant-based diet is completely cholesterol-free. Generally speaking, if you have a high blood cholesterol level, it’s due to the food you eat. A plant-based diet, however, will reduce this level within just a few weeks. If you are taking cholesterol-lowering medication, let your doctor know that you’re switching to a plant-based diet. They may decide to reduce the dosage or to eliminate the medication completely.Few readers

• I suffer from Irritable Bowel Syndrome?

  Strange as it may sound, a plant-based diet can actually alleviate your IBS symptoms and improve your quality of life. With a plant-based diet, your gut flora will once again be on top form and easily able to handle (and benefit from!) the increased fibre content.Few readers

• I have an inflammatory bowel disease such as Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis?

  Absolutely. When the disease isn’t flaring up, you can follow a plant-based diet without any particular restrictions. Its reduced saturated fat content and high intake of anti-inflammatory substances have been shown to successfully delay the time between flare-ups. You can even follow a plant-based diet during flare-ups (for example, tofu, soy milk and soy yogurt are fibre-free, just like animal-based foods), provided that it’s a low-residue diet. Talk to your doctor and, if you still have any cFew readers

• My thyroid does not work properly and I have to take replacement medication?

  You can still follow a plant-based diet even if you have been diagnosed with hypothyroidism. If you’ve been prescribed levothyroxine, however, you need to avoid consuming soy products a few hours before or after taking your medicine. So, for example, if you take the medicine before breakfast, avoid any soy products until it’s time for your mid-morning snack. More recent formulations, especially liquid ones, however, are now absorbed so rapidly that this delay is no longer necessary.Few readers

• I suffer from anemia and am often iron deficient?

  There are lots of different reasons for an iron deficiency and they aren’t always diet-related. The way to correct the deficiency may well not be through dietary changes but in the form of a supplement. If blood tests show a deficiency, talk to your doctor because the causes may have nothing to do with your plant-based diet! Remember that Planter’s tailored, well-balanced meal plan ensures your iron requirements are met, so it helps you maintain good levels in conjunction with your iron supplemeFew readers

• I’m going through menopause?

  Of course! A plant-based diet will help alleviate some of the worst symptoms, such as hot flashes. Make sure your vitamin D level is good and take a supplement if your doctor prescribes one. Exercise regularly to keep your bones strong.Few readers

• I have coeliac disease?

  Of course. Planter creates a well-balanced and diverse meal plan especially for you using exclusively gluten-free ingredients. Set this option during registration or in your personal area.Few readers

• I have an auto-immune disease?

  Yes, of course. Switching to a plant-based diet may well improve your symptoms and overall quality of life due to its anti-inflammatory properties.Few readers