Plant forward, plant centric, or flexitarian diets usually means what?

A plant forward, plant centric, or flexitarian diet primarily emphasizes the inclusion of plant-based foods while allowing for occasional consumption of animal products. This approach is characterized by prioritizing fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts, and seeds while still being flexible enough to include meat and dairy on occasion.

The concept behind these diets is not to completely eliminate animal products but to encourage a more sustainable and health-conscious way of eating that reduces meat consumption. This can lead to various health benefits, including lower risks of chronic diseases, improved digestive health, and a positive environmental impact due to a reduced carbon footprint associated with lower meat consumption.

In contrast, a strictly vegan diet would entirely exclude all animal products, which does not align with the flexitarian approach. Likewise, a meat-focused diet primarily emphasizes animal products, and high-protein diets do not inherently center around plant-based foods. Thus, the correct answer embraces a balanced approach that includes both plant and animal sources in moderation.