EAT-Lancet diet slashes disease risk while protecting the planet, study finds

A new study from Lund University suggests that adopting the EAT-Lancet diet can improve health while cutting environmental impact. Led by researcher Anna Stubbendorff, the findings show that this plant-focused eating plan reduces chronic disease risks without causing major nutrient shortages. The diet, which limits meat and dairy, has already influenced Sweden's national food policies in recent years.

The EAT-Lancet diet prioritises vegetables, whole grains, and legumes while drastically reducing animal products. Current Swedish eating habits, however, remain heavy in meat and dairy, with the average person consuming around 680 grams of meat weekly—far above the diet's recommendations.

Researchers tracked participants who closely followed the EAT-Lancet guidelines. Results revealed a 33% lower risk of cardiovascular death and a 25% drop in overall premature mortality. Cancer-related deaths also fell in line with this trend. Additionally, those with lower dietary emissions faced a 38% reduced chance of developing type 2 diabetes compared to high-impact diets.

Biomarker tests showed no serious nutrient deficiencies, though women experienced a slight rise in iron-deficiency anaemia risk. On the positive side, participants had higher folate levels, suggesting the diet's balance of plant-based foods can support key nutritional needs.

Sweden has already begun shifting its food policies toward these principles. In 2019, the government incorporated EAT-Lancet guidelines into national dietary advice. By 2021, climate labels appeared on food products, and 2022 saw subsidies for plant-based alternatives. This year, a campaign aims to cut animal products in schools and public canteens. Meat and dairy consumption has gradually declined, with average meat intake dropping from 80 kg to 72 kg per person annually, and dairy falling from 320 kg to 280 kg.

The study confirms that aligning diets with sustainability goals can bring measurable health benefits. With Sweden's policy changes already reducing meat and dairy consumption, the findings support a broader shift toward plant-centric eating. The small increase in anaemia risk among women remains the only noted trade-off in an otherwise positive outcome.