Kenya's health experts push plant-based diets to fight lifestyle diseases

Health experts in Kenya are calling for a return to traditional plant-based diets to tackle rising lifestyle diseases. They argue that shifting away from processed and animal-heavy foods could improve public health and ease economic strain. The push comes as non-communicable diseases (NCDs) now account for nearly 40% of deaths in the country. Gladicy Mumbi, a health advocate, is urging young Kenyans to embrace plant-based eating. She highlights the benefits of traditional African meals—rich in fruits, vegetables, legumes, and whole grains—for weight management, digestion, and blood sugar control. These diets, she notes, also strengthen the immune system and lower the risk of obesity, diabetes, and hypertension.

Steve Morara, another nutrition expert, supports this view. He points out that traditional African diets are naturally plant-focused, offering long-term protection against NCDs. Meanwhile, Virginia Ruguru stresses the economic impact, arguing that fewer diet-related illnesses would reduce healthcare costs. The call to action follows concerns over Kenya's growing 'cool' culture, where processed and animal-based foods dominate. Health advocates warn that these habits are fuelling the rise in preventable diseases. While no specific data exists on vegan restaurants in Kenya, the push for plant-based eating is gaining momentum.

The shift to plant-based diets could help lower Kenya's high NCD death rate. Experts agree that traditional foods provide a practical solution for better health and financial relief. The focus now is on encouraging wider adoption of these dietary changes.