EAT-Lancet diet cuts early death risk but raises anemia concerns for women

A new study highlights the benefits and challenges of the EAT-Lancet diet, a plant-focused eating plan designed to improve health and cut environmental harm. Researchers in Sweden found that following this diet could lower risks of early death and heart disease. However, they also noted potential drawbacks, including a higher chance of anemia in some groups.

The EAT-Lancet diet prioritises whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and legumes while limiting meat and dairy. Current Swedish eating habits far exceed its recommendations, with the average person consuming around 680 grams of meat weekly—far above the diet's 90-gram target. Despite policy talks on carbon taxes and sustainability labels, Sweden's meat intake has remained steady at 26-27 kg per person annually since 2019.

The study, led by Anna Stubbendorff, revealed key health impacts. Participants on the climate-friendly diet showed higher folate levels and a 33% drop in cardiovascular death risk. Their overall risk of premature death fell by 25%. Yet, women faced a slight rise in iron deficiency anemia risk.

High-emission diets were linked to a 38% greater chance of developing type 2 diabetes. The findings suggest that aligning diets with sustainability goals could reshape public health and ease climate pressures. Food production is a major contributor to greenhouse gases, water use, and biodiversity loss, making dietary changes urgent.

The EAT-Lancet recommendations are stricter than Sweden's current guidelines, signalling a global push toward more sustainable eating. Researchers argue that updating dietary advice—without sacrificing nutrition—could help combat climate change while improving health outcomes.

The study underscores both the promise and the hurdles of adopting the EAT-Lancet diet. While it offers significant health benefits, such as lower heart disease and diabetes risks, challenges like anemia in women remain. Without stronger policies, Sweden's meat consumption is unlikely to drop to recommended levels, delaying potential gains for public health and the environment.