Why is the medical profession reluctant to talk about diet change?

Abstract

The intertwined crises of poor health, climate change, biodiversity loss and social injustice demand urgent action. Human activities, particularly fossil fuel use and the current food system, are key drivers of these crises. A transition to a plant-based diet, especially within healthcare systems, offers a significant opportunity to address these challenges. Diets high in animal products and ultra-processed foods are leading causes of chronic ill health and environmental degradation, while plant-based diets reduce greenhouse gas emissions, conserve biodiversity and promote human health. Evidence shows that plant-based diets can prevent and manage conditions such as cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes and cancer, while addressing global food insecurity and resource inefficiency. Healthcare systems, such as the NHS, can lead this transition by offering plant-based meals, promoting education and advocating for policy changes. Embracing plant-based diets is now an ethical imperative, with benefits spanning individual health, environmental sustainability, equitable resource distribution and global health justice.