University of Leicester Recruits 450 Volunteers for Largest Long-Term Trial on Plant-Based Diets to Date

The University of Leicester is conducting a 12-month randomized controlled trial known as the Plant Your Health study to determine the long-term health benefits of vegetarian and vegan diets in overweight and obese younger adults. The study aims to recruit 450 participants, aged between 18 and 50, who currently eat meat at least five days a week. Participants will be assigned to one of three groups: a vegetarian diet, a vegan diet, or their usual eating pattern, and various health markers will be assessed throughout the study.

The trial, supported by £1.95 million from the Chellaram Foundation, will measure LDL-cholesterol, blood pressure, blood glucose, body composition, psychological wellbeing, and dietary carbon footprint. The study, led by Professors Tom Yates and Kamlesh Khunti, aims to provide robust evidence on the health benefits of plant-based diets over the long term, filling a gap in existing research. The team hopes the data will inform public health policy and dietary guidelines worldwide, promoting healthier and more sustainable nutrition.