Plant based

Pesticides in produce, hormones in milk, antibiotics in meat -- what are all these extra ingredients doing in our food?

Injecting hormones into young livestock can make them gain weight faster. More weight means more meat, which means more profit for the producer. Hormones also increase the production of milk by dairy cows.

Hormones have been used for decades in the meat and dairy industries. Synthetic estrogens and testosterone are the most common.

Typically, farmers implant a pellet in a cow’s ear at an early age; it releases hormones throughout the animal’s life.

Food rich in saturated and hydrogenated fats, which is commonly found in red meat and processed meat should also be avoided. The unhealthy fat can increase the production of estrogen and can worsen your symptoms of hormonal imbalance. Instead, have eggs and fatty fish.

Disease free life

If embracing a full plant-based diet feels intimidating, then begin small. "A moderate change in your diet, such as lowering your animal food intake by one to two servings per day and replacing it with legumes or nuts as your protein source, can have a lasting positive impact on your health

What is the right plant-based diet for you? You don't need to go full vegetarian or vegan (avoiding all animal products, even eggs and dairy) to get the best heart health benefits. The focus should be on eating more of the right plants, avoiding the wrong kind, eliminating unhealthy foods, and moderating your intake of healthier animal products.