Weights vs. cardio for vegans: Which is better for bone health? – MNT

• Researchers investigated the effects of strength training on bone density in vegans.
• They found that vegans who engaged in a form of resistance training such as lifting weights had a similar bone density to omnivores who engaged in weight training.
• They recommend vegans include resistance training as a part of a plant-based lifestyle.

Veganism is a growing practice with the number of people following a vegan diet or lifestyle in the United States increasing from around 1% in 2014 to roughly 10% in 2022, as reported in Medical News Today (MNT)

However, in addition to its health benefits, research has also indicated a link between the vegan diet and a higher susceptibility to fractures and low bone mineral density.

Studies show that resistance training can stimulateTrusted Source bone formation, whereas other common sportsTrusted Source such as cycling or swimming do not affect bone mineral density.

Knowing how different forms of physical activity affect bone mineral density among vegans could help inform public health recommendations.