We would like to inform you that IASO’s Vegan Maternity Care Department is organizing an event on the topic: Vegetarianism and Health: Scientific Answers and Practical Tips for Everyone, on Friday, January 31st, 2025, at 17:30, at IASO Hospital’s Events Hall.

Ms. Vasiliki Skalafouri, Obstetrician-Gynecologist, Head, Vegan Maternity Care Department, IASO, Member, Plant-Based Health Professionals UK, and Ms. Despoina Marselou, Clinical Dietitian – Nutritionist specialized in autoimmune diseases with postgraduate training in plant-based nutrition, External Scientific Associate, Vegan Maternity Care Department, will be the speakers.

In this event you will receive scientific information on the multiple health benefits of a vegetarian lifestyle, as well as the latest research with regard to nutrition and the consequences of consuming animal products. Experts in health and nutrition will analyze, in a well-documented manner, the positive effects of a diet with no animal products, while debunking prevalent myths and misconceptions. In addition, they will share practical strategies and tips for integrating a plant-based diet into your life in a simple and effective way.

The goal of the event is to provide a comprehensive insight of how veganism is not just a dietary choice but a philosophy of life that positively impacts personal health, the environment, animals, and human relationships. Participants will have the opportunity to receive answers to important questions based on scientific data and research on the connection between our nutrition, our ethical stance towards animals, and the sustainability of the planet.

The event is addressed to a broad audience: from individuals interested in improving their health and adopting a more conscious lifestyle, to health professionals who want to be informed about the latest developments in plant-based nutrition and veganism. Especially for parents and educators, this is a unique opportunity to learn how they can pass on healthier and more sustainable practices to the next generations, thus creating a more responsible world for their children.

You may attend the event in person, free of charge.

For any further information or clarification needed, you may contact us at 210 6383906 (Athina Antzou –Events & Conferences Coordinator, IASO Group).

Event program

17:30 – 18:00

• The role of vegetarianism in Western lifestyle diseases: Cardiovascular diseases, Type 2 Diabetes, Obesity, Cancer (breast, endometrial, bowel, prostate cancer, etc.), Autoimmune Diseases, Dementia and Alzheimer’s disease
• The role of plant-based nutrition in fertility, pregnancy, breastfeeding and menopause

18:00 – 18:30

• Vegetarianism and Health: scientific answers and practical tips for everyone

Types of Vegetarianism

• Differences between vegan, vegetarian, plant-based, and whole-food plant-based diets

Benefits of Vegetarianism

• Scientifically well-documented data on the impact of vegetarianism on our overall health

Myths and Reality: Debunking myths

• Are we truly designed to eat meat and dairy as our ancestors did?
• Is it necessary to follow a 100% plant-based diet in order to see benefits?
• Comparative analysis with the Mediterranean Diet: What are the advantages? Planetary health

Nutrient Topics

• Proteins: Sources and adequacy
• Omega-3 fatty acids: Finding alternative sources
• Calcium and Iodine: How to ensure adequate intake through plant-based nutrition

Special Populations

• Nutritional needs of pregnant and breastfeeding women with an emphasis on plant-based nutrition