Normal Weight And Introversion. Scientists Decided To Determine The Common Traits Of Vegetarians

Normal weight and introversion. Scientists decided to determine the common traits of vegetarians

Vegetarians are influenced not only by plant-based foods, but also by the very restrictive nature of the diet.

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Scientists from the Institute. Max Planck conducted a major study to determine the general physical and mental traits of vegetarians, which are independent of age, gender and educational level. Their work is published in Nutrients magazine.

The study involved over 9 thousand people. Scientists have found that the lower the proportion of animal products in a person's diet, the lower his body mass index. They speculate that the low amount of processed foods in vegetarian diets is contributing to this. The fact is that such food - rich in fat and sugar and stimulating appetite - especially promotes weight gain.

Another reason that vegetarians tend to be of normal weight may be due to the high amount of fiber in their diet. This component, in particular, has a positive effect on the gut microbiome, the relationship of which with body weight has long been known.

Study author Evelyn Medawar points out that vegetarianism can lead to changes in the feeling of fullness and is often associated with other healthy habits, such as exercise.

Body weight was also related to what animal products remained in the diet. Meat and sausages were associated with more weight gain than eggs and milk.

Nutrition and psyche

Scientists have found that people on a predominantly plant-based diet tend to be more introverted than people who eat meat often. Veronica Witte, co-author of the study, suggests that this may be due to the limitations implied by the vegetarian diet. Introversion can also be associated with the possible social segregation of vegetarians. But today, these versions are not supported by strong evidence.

Previously, some studies have shown that vegetarians are often prone to neurotic behavior. It has also been speculated to be related to dietary restrictions that vegetarians regularly face. The new work has not found confirmation of this statement. Also, scientists have not found in people whose diet consists mainly of plant foods, a tendency to depression.