Research Reveals UK Adults Are Not Eating Enough Plant-Based Foods

A recent study conducted by researchers from King's College London highlights a significant gap in the dietary habits of UK adults, specifically regarding plant-based food consumption. The research indicates that the typical UK diet lacks sufficient variety and diversity in plant-based foods, which are vital for maintaining optimal health. On average, UK adults consume a median of only eight different plant foods daily, including spices and fats like oils, with some individuals eating as few as two different plant items each day.

The study, published in the journal Clinical Nutrition, analyzed data from over 670 adults obtained from the UK National Diet and Nutrition Survey (2016–2017). Participants were categorized into three groups based on their plant food diversity: low (around 5.5 different plant foods daily), moderate (about 8.1), and high (approximately 11). Findings revealed that those with lower dietary diversity tended to have less favorable health markers, such as reduced levels of HDL cholesterol (the 'good' cholesterol) and higher blood glucose levels.

Importantly, individuals consuming a broader variety of plant-based foods exhibited better cardiometabolic health outcomes. They showed improvements in cholesterol, blood sugar controls, and overall diet quality, with increased intake of vital nutrients like fiber, vitamins, and minerals. The research underscores that focusing solely on quantity, such as the recommended five servings of fruits and vegetables per day, might overlook the critical role of dietary variety in reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes.

Dr. Eirini Dimidi, the senior author, emphasized that promoting higher diversity in plant foods—including vegetables, fruits, legumes, nuts, seeds, and herbs—could be a key strategy in improving population health and tackling diet-related diseases. The study found that vegetables contributed most to dietary diversity, followed by plant-based fats and oils, and fruits. However, certain nutrient-rich categories like nuts and seeds were underrepresented.

Despite the positive correlations between plant diversity and health, the study also identified ongoing nutrient shortfalls—particularly in fiber and micronutrients—among even the most diverse diets. To enhance dietary variety, experts recommend incorporating seasonal and under-consumed foods like beans, spices, and diverse vegetables into daily meals.

This research highlights the importance of encouraging a more diverse plant-based diet to improve health outcomes across the UK, especially among groups at higher risk of diet-related conditions. Efforts to broaden the range of plant foods in everyday eating habits could play a vital role in enhancing overall diet quality and reducing disease burden.

Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-07-uk-adults.html