Majority of Americans Recognize Health Advantages of Plant-Based Diets

Recent findings from a survey conducted by the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine in collaboration with Morning Consult reveal that approximately 50% of adults in the United States are aware that adopting a plant-based diet can enhance health and mitigate the risk of chronic illnesses. Despite this recognition, the survey also indicated that only 20% of primary care physicians engage in discussions about the benefits of such diets with their patients.

The survey involved a sample of 2,203 U.S. adults who were questioned between April 15 and April 16, 2025. Xavier Toledo, a registered dietitian affiliated with the Physicians Committee, expressed appreciation for the survey results, highlighting the public's awareness of the positive health impacts of plant-based eating. However, he pointed out a significant gap in professional support from healthcare providers, which he believes is a missed opportunity to convert public interest into actionable dietary changes that could lead to a reduction in chronic disease prevalence.

Among respondents, a notable 65% indicated they would consider trying a plant-based diet if presented with evidence demonstrating its health benefits. Numerous studies support the advantages of such diets, including:

• A comprehensive meta-analysis conducted in 2023, which analyzed data from over 2 million individuals, found that strict adherence to plant-based diets, particularly those rich in fruits, vegetables, legumes, and whole grains, is linked to significantly lower risks of developing type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, certain cancers, and premature mortality. This underscores the accumulating evidence that plant-based nutrition can play a crucial role in preventing major health issues.
• A significant U.S. study, involving more than 70,000 adults, demonstrated that individuals following vegan or vegetarian diets experience a lower risk of premature death compared to those consuming meat. Specifically, vegans were found to have up to a 15% reduced overall risk of premature mortality, particularly in relation to heart disease. This data was sourced from the Adventist Health Study 2, one of the most extensive studies examining the differences between plant-based and meat-based dietary patterns.
• A 2017 meta-analysis that evaluated various studies comparing vegetarian and vegan diets with meat-inclusive diets highlighted that vegetarian diets are associated with a reduced risk of heart disease and cancer. While the number of studies specifically concerning vegans was fewer, the available evidence still supports the conclusion that plant-based eating habits can lower the likelihood of developing significant chronic illnesses.

In an effort to bridge the knowledge gap in medical education, the Physicians Committee provides resources focused on plant-based nutrition for medical and nursing students, aiming to enhance the understanding of dietary education within academic settings. Recently, the organization commended legislators in New York for proposing a bill that aims to keep physicians updated on the latest continuing medical education opportunities in nutrition, which is anticipated to improve health outcomes for patients and address racial disparities faced by many New Yorkers struggling with diet-related health conditions such as type 2 diabetes and heart disease.

For individuals interested in transitioning to a plant-based diet, the Physicians Committee offers a complimentary Vegan Starter Kit, which includes recipes, helpful resources, and additional information. The organization also maintains a directory of healthcare providers specializing in plant-based nutrition.