AS Malaysians, we are blessed with a variety of delicious foods, from nasi lemak to a plethora of kuih-muih.
But have you ever wondered how the food we consume affects our health in the long run?
Chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and cancer are on the rise, and they are often linked to our diet.
According to one of the authors of New York Times bestseller “How Not to Die” Dr Michael Greger, diet is the number one cause of premature death and disability in the world.
“There are certain dietary factors that contribute to the development of heart disease, diabetes, and cancer,” said Dr Greger, a leading expert on nutrition and chronic disease prevention.
In an email interview with Astro AWANI, he highlighted that the more plant-based food we eat, the lower our risk of chronic diseases.
In fact, there is potential that consuming such a diet would even reverse their effects.
“This is because plant-based foods are high in nutrients, fibre, and antioxidants, which can help protect our bodies from damage caused by free radicals,” he explained.
Plant-based diet vs Chronic diseases
Heart disease: Heart disease is the leading cause of death worldwide. According to Dr. Greger, a plant-based diet can reduce the risk of heart disease by up to 80%, as it can help lower cholesterol levels, reduce inflammation, and improve blood pressure.
Diabetes: Diabetes is a growing epidemic in Malaysia, with over 3 million adults diagnosed with the disease. A plant-based diet can reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes by up to 60% as it can help improve insulin sensitivity, lower blood sugar levels, and reduce the risk of obesity.
Cancer: Cancer is the second leading cause of death worldwide. He said that a plant-based diet can reduce the risk of certain types of cancer, such as breast, prostate, and colon cancer. He explains that it can help protect our cells from DNA damage, reduce inflammation, and promote healthy gut bacteria.
According to Dr. Greger, research showed that an increase in meat consumption can lead to a 146% increase in odds of heart disease, a 152% increase in stroke, a 166% increase in diabetes, and a 231% increase in odds for weight gain.
But it's not just about what you eat, it is also about what you don't eat.
So, what can we do to improve our diet and prevent chronic diseases? Dr Greger suggests the following tips:
Dr Greger added that this type of diet has been shown to prevent, treat, and even reverse some of our leading causes of death, including heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and high blood pressure.
If you're already at higher risk of developing chronic diseases, there are practical tips and strategies you can implement to reduce your risk.
A six-year study by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention found that three simple habits can have a huge impact on your health and mortality.
“By not smoking, eating a healthy diet, and exercising regularly, you can significantly reduce your risk of chronic diseases and live a longer, healthier life,” he said.
And remember, even small changes can make a big difference.
“Even just 21 minutes of moderate exercise a day can reduce your risk of mortality by 82%,” said Dr Greger.
The power of nutrition in preventing chronic diseases cannot be overstated.
So why not give it a try? Your health will thank you.
Melissa Fernando
Tue Mar 21 2023
According to Dr Michael Greger, consuming a diet that's rich in fruits and vegetables may help you to fend off both chronic and infectious diseases. - Unsplashed
ISIS Malaysia's perspective of Budget 2025
An excellent rakyat-centric budget under the overarching principle of a caring and humane economy.
Budget 2025: Record increase in STR, SARA aid initiatives
The government will provide a significant boost to the Sumbangan Tunai Rahmah (STR) and Sumbangan Asas Rahmah (SARA) initiatives next year.
Budget 2025: EPF contributions to be made mandatory for foreign workers – PM Anwar
The government plans to make it compulsory for all non-citizen workers to contribute to the Employees Provident Fund (EPF).
What policies to expect from Indonesia's new President Prabowo
Prabowo will be open to foreign investment, his aide has said, such as by offering investors management of airports and sea ports.
Budget 2025: Govt allocates RM470 mil to empower women's participation in PMKS
The Women's Leadership Apprenticeship Program will be intensified as an effort to produce more female corporate personalities.
Israel sends more troops into north Gaza, deepens raid
Residents of Jabalia in northern Gaza said Israeli tanks had reached the heart of the camp, using heavy air and ground fire.
Indonesia ramps up security ahead of Prabowo's inauguration
Prabowo Subianto will be sworn in as Indonesia's president on Sunday with Vice President-elect, Gibran Rakabuming Raka, also taking office.
Immediate allocation of RM150 mil for local authorities, DID to tackle flash floods
Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said this allocation is intended to address the recent flash floods that hit the capital and several major towns.
Budget 2025: Sabah, Sarawak to continue receiving among highest allocations - PM
Sabah and Sarawak continues to be prioritised under Budget 2025, with allocations of RM6.7 billion and RM5.9 billion respectively.
NFOF will be operational in November 2024 with funding of RM1 bil
PM Anwar Ibrahim said NFOF will support venture capital fund managers to invest in startup companies with RM300 million set aside for 2025.
Minimum wage to increase to RM1,700 effective Feb 1, 2025
The Progressive Wage Policy would be fully enforced next year with an allocation of RM200 million, benefiting 50,000 workers.
Bursa Malaysia ends higher on Budget 2025 optimism
The benchmark index, which opened 1.85 points higher at 1,643.29, moved between 1,641.71 and 1,649.31 throughout the trading session.
Five important aspects relating to people’s lives in Budget 2025 - PM
The focus is on driving the MADANI Economy, speeding reforms, cutting red tape, raising wages, and tackling the cost of living.
Economic outlook: Govt plans to leverage, expand existing city transit system
The expansion aims to provide a more efficient and reliable public transportation network, reduce congestion, and improve accessibility.
Economic outlook: Budget 2025 to lay foundation for a digital-driven economy
The report said Budget 2025 will entail efforts to position Kuala Lumpur as a top 20 global startup hub by 2030 through the KL20 initiative.
Economic outlook: Corruption and lack of accountability hinder economic progress
Special Cabinet Committee on National governance is established to curb corruption, law reforms to modernise outdate regulations, MoF said.
National Wages Consultative Council will be strengthened
The govt will also incentivise hiring women returning from career breaks, offer job matching and improve care services facilities.
Economic outlook: Ensuring 11 years of compulsory education for all children
Budget 2025 will continue prioritising upskilling and retraining initiatives to equip workers with the latest skill sets necessary.
Consolidated public sector projected to record lower surplus of RM41.7 bil 2024
The MoF said the consolidated general government revenue is estimated to increase slightly to RM384.7 billion in 2024.
PM announces substantial Budget 2025 hastening Malaysia to become Asian economic powerhouse
Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said it would create jobs and also tackle financial leakages to enhance public spending efficiency.