You are what you eat, and to science it is true. People live longer based on what they choose to eat. With such a thought, Canadians took on to a UK-based challenge of eating vegan for a month. The challenge is called Veganuary (Vegan + January). For many, it is not a hidden fact that eating less meat and more plants is good for our health and it can cut food-related emissions, which make up to a third of the greenhouse causing climate change. However, going vegan isn't really a smooth change, rather a big step. It means to revamp our entire diet.

The good news is, that there have been researches that prove that even relatively small substitutions of red meat with plant-based proteins like tofu, lentils and beans can add months, sometimes years to our expected lifespan. It can also make a noticeable dent in our carbon footprint.

The Rise Of Vegetarianism

As per 2018, only 7.1% of Canadians were vegetarian and 2.3% were vegan. Olivia Auclair, a research fellow at the University of Oxford, who researched on Canadian's eating habits told CBC that Canadians get 65% of their protein from animal sources. Only 5% of the protein comes from the high-protein plant-based sources. Some of these are also included in Canada's Food Guide.

It is true that eating habits, along with shopping habits are hard to change, this is why Auclair's research tried to bring people more in line with the food guide. The Canada Food Guide recommends lots of fruits, vegetables and whole grain, along with protein from both animal and plant sources.

ALSO READ: Is Plant-Based Cheese The Future?

What is the study all about?

Her research was published last year in the journal Nature Food, titled Partial substitutions of animal with plant protein foods in Canadian diets have synergies and trade-offs among nutrition, health and climate outcomes, found that replacing half their red and processed meat would increase people's life expectancy an average of nine months, while cutting their diet-related carbon footprint by 25%.

For her research, she analyzed what 13,600 Canadians ate based on the Statistics Canada data from "food diaries" recorded by them in 2015. After that, she modelled what could happen if the same people substituted 25 to 50% of the red and processed meat they had been consuming with plant-based proteins. However, they did not change their poultry, fish or seafood intake.

The results were great, as mentioned above. In fact, there was more. The health benefits were double for men compared to women!

Men gained one full year of increased life expectancy, on average. This is also because men eat more red and processed meats and the climate benefits were also higher for men cutting down on the meat.

CHECK OUT: Can A Vegan Diet Help You Loose Weight ?

Plant-based Diets

In 2019, an international group of scientist recommended a planetary health diet, a plant-based diet rich in fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts and whole grain, with small amounts of meat, dairy and fish, similar to what is recommended by the Canada Food Guide. The reason for such a recommendation was also to prevent 11 million deaths per year from processed meats and help keep greenhouse gas emission from food.

Another US study that looked at 200,000 US healthcare workers found that eating a plant-based diet could reduce a person's risk of dying by 30% from heart diseases, cancers, and respiratory diseases. Another 2021 Swedish study found a similar benefit, where it saw a 25% drop in mortality for those who adhere to a plant-based diets.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) rolled out a new set of dietary guidelines on Wednesday, Jan. 7, introducing a food pyramid that looks strikingly different from what most people remember. Emphasizing protein and healthy fats while reducing the role of grains, the updated recommendations represent a clear break from previous federal guidance. The accompanying food pyramid graphic almost completely reverses the old model, both in appearance and in the food groups it promotes.

During a White House briefing, Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt highlighted the changes, saying the announcement aligned with President Donald Trump and Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s mission to "Make America Healthy Again."

Also Read: New Food Pyramid 2026 Reshapes Dietary Guidelines For Americans Under RFK Jr

If you’re used to the pyramid from the early 2000s, it may take a moment to adjust to the new look. Here are some of the major differences between the old and new food pyramids.

New Food Pyramids 2026: What Does The New Food Pyramid Look Like?

The U.S. had stopped using the pyramid as a guide back in 2011, switching to a plate-style visual for dietary recommendations. Now, under RFK Jr.’s leadership at HHS, the pyramid is back—but flipped. The upside-down triangle now places the foods that should make up most of your diet at the top, while foods to eat sparingly sit at the bottom.

RFK Jr.’s New Food Pyramid vs Old Food Pyramid

It’s not just the graphic that’s changed. The hierarchy of food groups has shifted as well. Grains, once the largest and foundational part of the diet, are now the smallest segment at the bottom. Meanwhile, protein, dairy, healthy fats, fruits, and vegetables dominate the top of the pyramid.

Here’s a detailed look at RFK Jr.’s New Food Pyramid vs Old Food Pyramid and what it means for Americans, based on reporting from USA Today.

1. Focus Shift

Old Food Pyramid: Grains and carbs were the base, while proteins and fats were limited. The focus was on low-fat foods and staples like bread, pasta, and cereal.

RFK Jr.’s New Food Pyramid: Whole foods, protein, and healthy fats take center stage. Red meat, cheese, fruits, and vegetables are placed at the top, and refined grains play a smaller role.

2. Protein and Fats

Old: Saturated fats and animal proteins were discouraged. Fat was often treated as the main dietary enemy.

New: Protein and healthy fats, including saturated fats from meat and dairy, are now seen as essential. Federal nutrition leaders have officially declared an end to the “war on fat.”

3. Processed Foods

Old: Highly processed foods, added sugars, refined carbs, and chemical additives were allowed in moderation.

New: There’s a strong push to reduce ultra-processed foods, added sugars, and refined carbs. The emphasis is now on minimally processed, real foods.

4. Dairy

Old: Low-fat or skim dairy was recommended; full-fat options were generally discouraged.

New: Cheese and other dairy products are now at the top of the pyramid, allowing for full-fat milk in both general diets and school meals.

5. Sugar and Additives

Old: Sugar intake was suggested to be limited, but highly processed foods weren’t heavily flagged.

New: Added sugar is more strictly controlled, and processed foods are clearly marked as foods to minimize.

6. Overall Approach

Old: The diet centered on lowering fat, balancing calories, and relying heavily on plant-based staples such as grains.

New: The focus is on nutrient-rich, protein-heavy meals, healthy fats, whole foods, and cutting down refined carbohydrates. The guidelines aim to address obesity, chronic disease, and overall health.

How Does The New Pyramid Reflect Dietary Trends?

The new food pyramid, unveiled by Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., signals a major shift in U.S. nutrition advice, emphasizing more protein and healthy fats while reducing grains. This change mirrors growing trends in American diets, where high-protein eating patterns and skepticism of high-carb, ultra-processed foods are increasingly common, according to USA Today.

Practically, protein and dairy, especially full-fat dairy, now dominate the pyramid, replacing the previous grain-heavy base. Saturated fats are no longer demonized; instead, they are considered healthy in moderation. Federal nutrition leaders have officially ended the “war on fat.” These updates also reflect recent survey findings showing that high-protein diets are a top trend in the U.S., with most Americans actively trying to increase their protein intake.

In a world where colourful vitamin gummies line supermarket shelves and powders promise instant wellness, many people are left wondering: should I really rely on supplements, or is eating well enough? Experts say the answer isn’t as simple as choosing one over the other.

Why Natural Foods Come First

Dr. Hari Kishan Boorugu, Consultant Physician and Diabetologist at Yashoda Hospitals, Hyderabad, emphasizes that “whole, natural foods should always come first.” Fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, seeds, fish, yogurt, and healthy oils are packed with vitamins, minerals, fibre, antioxidants, and other plant compounds that work together to support digestion, immunity, heart health, and gut microbiome balance. “Supplements can’t fully replicate the synergy of nutrients found in real foods,” he adds.

Supplements, including tablets, capsules, powders, and even gummies—are meant to fill specific gaps. They are particularly useful for people with diagnosed deficiencies, dietary restrictions, pregnancy-related needs, ageing-related bone health, or medical conditions that affect nutrient absorption. But Dr. Boorugu cautions that “self-prescribing or overusing supplements can lead to nutrient imbalances or even toxicity, especially with vitamins A, D, E, and K.”

The Truth About Gummies

Gummies have become popular for their taste and convenience. Yet, experts warn that they are not a substitute for a balanced diet. “Many gummies contain added sugar and inconsistent doses of nutrients,” Dr. Boorugu explains. They can support your nutrition, but only when used responsibly and under medical guidance.

Supplements As Support, Not Shortcuts

Ruchika Rajbans, Founder & CEO of Arechar Group and creator of Vitagoli, says people often ask her, “Do I really need supplements? Isn’t eating well enough?” Her answer: ideally, yes—food should cover your nutritional needs—but real life often interferes. Stress, lack of sleep, overworking, and hormonal changes can affect how well your body absorbs nutrients.

“Supplements are gap fillers, not meal replacements,” Ruchika explains. “Whether in gummies, tablets, or powders, what matters is the quality of the ingredients and whether there’s evidence backing their benefits.” She adds that wellness isn’t about chasing trends or formats; it’s about understanding your body, reading labels carefully, and making informed choices.

Experts agree that balance is key. Prioritize a varied, nutrient-rich diet, maintain a healthy lifestyle, and use supplements only when necessary, preferably with medical guidance. Real nutrition starts on your plate—not in a capsule or gummy.

If you scroll through TikTok or Instagram these days, chances are you have come across videos of people blending oats with water or juice and calling the drink “oatzempic”.

The term is clearly inspired by Ozempic, a prescription drug mainly used to treat type 2 diabetes and known for reducing appetite. Clips featuring the oat-based drink often promise quick weight loss, long-lasting fullness, and a “natural substitute” for medication. But does oatzempic have any scientific backing? In short, no. Here’s a closer look at why.

What Is Oatzempic?

There is no fixed formula for oatzempic. Most videos show people blending one or two tablespoons of rolled oats with a glass of water. Some add lemon or lime juice, cinnamon, or soak the oats beforehand. Oats are high in beta-glucan, a form of soluble fibre that turns gel-like when mixed with liquid. The idea is that drinking this mixture will help you feel full and curb hunger.

Many TikTok creators suggest replacing breakfast with oatzempic. Others recommend drinking it mid-afternoon to avoid overeating later.

Oatzempic: What Happens When You Drink It?

As per The Independent, many people online say they feel fuller after drinking oatzempic, which makes sense. Oats contain beta-glucan, a soluble fibre that forms a thick gel in the digestive tract. This slows digestion and can increase feelings of fullness. Strong evidence shows that diets rich in viscous soluble fibre, such as that found in oats, can modestly improve appetite control, blunt blood sugar spikes after meals, and support healthier cholesterol levels.

That said, oats are not unique in this respect. Foods like apples, citrus fruits, flaxseeds, barley, psyllium husk, and legumes such as beans and lentils also contain soluble fibres that behave in a similar way in the gut, promoting fullness and overall health. So yes, oats can help you feel satisfied. But feeling full alone does not equal lasting or meaningful weight loss.

Sustainable weight management depends on balanced eating and regular physical activity, not just appetite suppression.

Has Oatzempic Actually Been Studied For Weight Loss?

No. There are no clinical studies examining the “oatzempic drink” for weight loss, appetite regulation, or long-term health effects. There is no agreed recipe, no standard quantity, and no research following its use over time.

If someone loses weight while drinking it, it is difficult to know whether that change is due to oatzempic itself, reduced calorie intake overall, or other lifestyle adjustments happening at the same time.

Oatzempic: Are There Downsides To Consider?

For most people, drinking small amounts of oatzempic is unlikely to be harmful. Still, there are a few points worth keeping in mind:

• It is not a complete meal. Oatzempic lacks adequate protein, healthy fats, and several essential nutrients. Regularly replacing meals with it could lead to nutrient deficiencies or under-eating
• Increasing fibre too quickly can cause discomfort. People who are not used to high-fibre diets may experience bloating or digestive issues, particularly if they are not drinking enough fluids
• The name itself can be misleading. Calling it “oatzempic” encourages comparisons with a prescription drug, which may wrongly suggest it has similar effects
• It may delay proper care. Relying on a viral drink instead of seeking evidence-based nutrition or medical advice could stop people from getting the support they actually need.