PROTECTING OUR HEALTH WITH PLANT FOODS(cont.)



	Excess cholesterol forms a fatty build-up that lines blood vessels and

restricts blood flow carrying needed oxygen and nutrients in our bodies. This 

condition is known as atherosclerosis. Saturated fats, contained mostly in animal 

foods, raise blood cholesterol level more than any other factor. However, 

antioxidants (vitamins C and E, and other plant components) and folic acid, present

only in plant foods, work to protect arteries from plaque formation. When fatty 

build-up restricts blood flow, blood pressure rises, and this leads to a condition

known as hypertension. Salt consumption increases water retention and blood volume, 

promoting hypertension.

	An artery leading to the heart can become blocked, killing a portion of the

heart muscle and causing a heart attack. Obstruction of an artery leading to the 

brain may kill a portion of the brain, causing a stroke.



CANCERS

	Cancer occurs when certain cells begin to grow out of control. Eventually,

they start to destroy important parts of the body. Cancers of the lung, breast, 

prostate, colon and other digestive organs  are closely connected with a diet high

in animal foods. Several reasons have been identified. For example, consumption of 

animal fats raises blood testosterone and estrogen levels, leading to prostate and 

breast cancers. 

	Fortunately, plant foods contain fiber which prevents colon cancer by 

helping to pass food through the digestive tract before cancerous growth can get 

very far. They also contain special compounds, phytochemicals and antioxidants, 

that make it harder for cancer cells to start forming.



DIABETES

	The cells of our body feed on glucose which is escorted by a hormone called

insulin. Animal fat in the bloodstream prevents insulin from playing its vital role. 

This causes adult-onset or type II diabetes.





   

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

	1) Name some of your favorite fruits and vegetables and tell why you like

	   them.

	2) What are some of the health benefits of plant foods?

	3) How many servings of fruits and vegetables should you eat?

	4) What do you think are some of the advantages of being healthy?

	5) What foods can you eat to improve your own health?

	6) Which of these foods are you going to eat in the next week?









Choice (Consumers for Healthy Options in Children's Education) promotes 

plant based meals and nutrition education in schools. This lesson is 

adapted from "Changing the Course" by the American Cancer Society.



choice@choiceusa.net

1-877-6CHOICE