Whole-food plant-based

Written by the VitaWhat editorial team · Medically reviewed by Steve Davis · Last reviewed 19 July 2026 · Editorial policy

Emphasises minimally processed plant foods, low in oil and refined ingredients.

Pros

  • Very high fibre and nutrients
  • Supports heart health
  • Environmentally light

Cons

  • Needs B12 (and often D, iodine, omega-3)
  • Requires cooking and planning

Suitable foods

  • Vegetables and fruit
  • Wholegrains
  • Legumes
  • Nuts and seeds
  • Fortified plant milks

Foods to limit or avoid

  • Meat and dairy
  • Refined grains and sugar
  • Processed oils and snacks

Sources & references

  1. British Nutrition Foundation
  2. Harvard T.H. Chan Nutrition Source

Related entries

DASH dietFlexitarian dietGluten-free dietIntermittent fastingKetogenic (keto) dietLow-carbohydrate diet
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