Due to their numerous health advantages, including lower risks of heart disease and type 2 diabetes, plant-based diets continue to gain popularity. But not all plant-based diets are created equal, and some eating patterns can be more harmful than beneficial. We cover all you need to know about following a wholesome plant-based diet in this Honest Nutrition segment. Plant Based Diet: Vegetarian diets/Plant based Diet - Vegetarian and vegan diets are examples of diets that are based on plant-based meals, according to Trusted Source. While vegetarian diets, which only allow for meat and fish, are more varied and may include dairy and eggs, vegan diets forgo all animal products. Meat is not allowed on pescatarian diets, only fish. Worldwide acceptance of plant-based diets is increasing as a result of decades of scientific study and accumulating proof of their potential health advantages, including lower levels of blood sugar and cholesterol. Additionally, growing knowledge of how animal agriculture affects the environment, including high greenhouse gas emissions, land degradation, and excessive water consumption, has encouraged some individuals to switch to plant-based diets, which may be more environmentally friendly.However, there are some health risks associated with some plant-based diets, particularly if there is high consumption of “junk” veggie foods. What are Junk - Plant based foods? Ultra-processed foods are, by definition, food items that have been processed with inexpensive industrial additives, have little nutritional value, contain few real ingredients, and are high in calories, added sugar, salt, and fat. According to the NOVA classification system, which divides food products into groups based on the amount of industrial processing they go through, "junk" foods can include a variety of plant-based items including professionally made breads, pastries, cakes, and cookies. Carbonated liquids Ready-made snacks Flavouring dairy beverages Cereals for breakfast Nutrient bars Quick desserts, soups, and noodle dishes. Health Risk: Ultra-processed foods offer convenience, continue to replace minimally processed whole foods, and now account for more than half of the daily intake of calories for many individuals in middle- and high-income countries. While a healthy and balanced plant-based diet is diverse, the frequent consumption of plant-based ultra-processed foods is associated with neIt's conceivable that these unfavourable effects are related to vegetarian and vegan diets' exclusion of meats high in calcium, iron, and vitamin B12 as well as meats. When people eat ultra-processed meals rather than nutrient-dense foods like fruits, vegetables, nuts, and legumes, it may exacerbate these issues. How to avoid the Risk? Well-planned vegetarian or vegan diets consistently offer several health benefits, and they can safeguard against nutrient deficiencies and adverse health risks associated with diets rich in ultra-processed plant foods.