EAT-Lancet diet proves nutritious and slashes disease risks in new study

A new study from Lund University has found that the EAT-Lancet diet—designed for both health and environmental sustainability—provides adequate nutrition without major deficiencies. Researchers analysed data from the Malmö Diet and Cancer Study to test whether this plant-focused eating plan meets the body's needs. The results suggest that shifting towards sustainable diets could bring significant health benefits while cutting greenhouse gas emissions.

The EAT-Lancet diet prioritises wholegrains, fruits, vegetables, and legumes, with far less meat and dairy than traditional Swedish eating habits. Current Swedish guidelines still recommend higher meat intake, but this study shows that reducing animal products does not lead to widespread nutrient shortfalls. Instead, the body appears to adapt, maintaining balance through improved absorption and metabolism.

Participants who closely followed the diet saw a 33% lower risk of dying from cardiovascular disease and a 25% drop in premature death from all causes. Their folate levels also rose, likely due to higher intake of plant-based B vitamins. However, women faced a slightly elevated risk of iron deficiency anaemia, the only notable nutritional concern identified.

Sweden's food system currently ranks poorly in global sustainability due to its heavy reliance on meat and dairy. Though per capita meat consumption has dipped slightly since 2019—from around 26 kg to 24–25 kg annually—dairy intake remains stable at roughly 190 kg per person per year. The study also linked high-emission diets to a 38% greater risk of type 2 diabetes, reinforcing the health risks of unsustainable eating patterns.

Led by researcher Anna Stubbendorff, the findings suggest that adopting the EAT-Lancet model could help Sweden meet UN Sustainable Development Goals. The diet's focus on plants rather than animal products offers a practical way to reduce food-related emissions while improving public health.

The study confirms that the EAT-Lancet diet delivers essential nutrients while lowering disease risks and environmental harm. With only minor adjustments needed to address iron intake, the results support a broader shift towards sustainable eating. For Sweden, this could mean better health outcomes and progress in cutting food-related carbon emissions.