Readers React: Plant-based diets are no fad

Sometimes distinguishing fact from fad is a matter of life or death. Such is the case when it comes to healthful diets. (“Paleo, vegan, gluten-free -- the only certainty about health trends is their reversal,” Opinion, May 30)

As a registered dietitian, I want to clarify that the science on diet has been consistent for decades: Diets based on whole plant foods are best for our health. An overwhelming body of scientific evidence confirms that avoiding meat and dairy products and eating plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains and legumes reduces the risk of almost every major chronic disease: cancer, heart disease, Type 2 diabetes, obesity and others.

Unlike the many trends surrounding diet and health, this evidence is not in dispute, nor is it driven by profit-seeking industries looking to make a buck on the latest health craze.

Far from a fad, vegan diets are going mainstream on their own scientific merits.

Susan Levin

Washington

The writer is director of nutrition education at Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine.

It may be harder for Op-Ed writer David Sax to throw a dinner party these days, as his friends restrict their diets over concerns about health, environmental sustainability and conditions on factory farms. However, he should be proud that they are thinking hard about their food choices.

Food systems impact health and the environment. More of us should align our grocery list with our values. The alternative is to eat whatever agribusiness serves up.

Jennifer Jay

Los Angeles

The writer, a professor of civil and environmental engineering at UCLA, teaches and does research in environmental chemistry and sustainability.

Sax writes, “Ever since humans have had enough to eat, we have worried about the right things to eat and devised diets to target various goals, including weight loss, beauty, sexual health and disease prevention.”

I loved his snarky take on the ability of Angelenos to take themselves too seriously about food and diet trends. However, aside from poking fun, Sax misses an opportunity to address a greater truth: There is no one right way to eat.

Too often what should be a dynamic process of self-discovery is reduced to reacting to the latest fear-mongering soundbite. Ideally, people learn to work with their bodies.

Bonnie Modugno

Venice

The writer is a registered dietitian.