Discover the Benefits of a Vegan Plant Based Diet

Welcome to a journey of health and vigor powered by plants! The appeal of vegan plant based diets has captivated the interest of health-conscious individuals like you in a society where well-being takes center stage.

In this insightful journey, we delve into the heart of a vegan plant based diet. Say goodbye to the myths of restricted choices and boring flavors. This way of life celebrates the vivid tapestry of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, and seeds. We’re here to help you navigate the enticing world of culinary innovation that coincides with your health goals.

So buckle up as we peel back the layers of what makes the vegan plant-based diet a nutritional powerhouse, how it differs from other popular dietary options, and how it may empower you on your path to radiant health. We go on a journey to discover the joys of plant-based living that are targeted to the specific demands of health-conscious women like you. Let us enter a world where every bite gets us closer to thriving health and a thriving planet.

The popularity of the vegan plant based diet is not without reason. It’s no surprise that a collective awakening to the benefits of these diets has stimulated interest! From heart-healthy minerals to waistline-friendly options, the world of plant-based foods provides a plethora of options for women like you who seek overall well-being. However, your decisions also have an impact on the environment, making each meal a small act of constructive change.

Understanding the Vegan Plant Based Diet

A philosophy of compassion and sustenance is at the heart of the vegan plant based diet. This way of life is founded on the deliberate decision to eliminate all animal-derived products from your diet. Yes, that means saying goodbye to meat, dairy, eggs, and even honey and welcoming nature’s vibrant array of vegetables, fruits, whole grains, legumes, nuts, and seeds. It’s not just a diet; it’s a way of life that demonstrates your dedication to thriving health and sustainability.

Harvesting Health: The Bountiful Benefits

As a woman navigating the complexities of health, you need a diet that supports you in all aspects. The vegan plant based diet provides a wealth of health benefits that are specifically matched to your needs:

• Weight Management: Because nature’s bounty is naturally low in saturated fats, weight management is a foregone conclusion. The high fiber content of the diet promotes a sensation of fullness, reducing unnecessary cravings and assisting in the maintenance of a healthy weight.
• Heart Health: A harmonious heart is crucial, especially as we age gracefully. Plant-based foods provide heart-protective elements such as soluble fiber, antioxidants, and healthy fats, all of which contribute to optimal cardiovascular health.
• Reduced Risk of Chronic Diseases: A vegan plant-based diet has been associated with a lower incidence of chronic illnesses such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and some malignancies. It’s a proactive measure to maintain your vitality and quality of life.
• Nutrient Nourishment: Nutrient intake is critical for you as a woman in your prime. The diet introduces you to a variety of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that improve your immune system, bone health, and skin brightness.

Sowing Seeds of Change: Environmental Impact

Your decisions have an impact that extends beyond your plate and onto the ecosystem. Your aim for a healthier planet is aligned with the vegan plant based diet:

• Reduced Carbon Footprint: Animal agriculture contributes significantly to greenhouse gas emissions. By eating plant-based meals, you are effectively lowering your carbon footprint and helping to combat climate change.
• Resource Conservation: Animal products necessitate significant resources such as water, land, and feed. Adopting a vegan plant based diet saves these vital resources, allowing future generations to thrive.

Your quest toward comprehensive well-being as a woman over 40 finds a great ally in the vegan plant based diet. It’s not just about what you eat; it’s about the influence you have on your health, the environment, and your legacy.

What are the top 10 food for a Vegan Plant-Based Diet?

1. Legumes: Beans, lentils, and peas are great sources of protein, fiber, iron, folate, calcium, potassium, zinc, and antioxidants.
2. Tofu, tempeh, and edamame: These soy-based products are high in protein and other nutrients, including calcium and iron.
3. Nuts: Almonds, cashews, and peanuts are high in protein, healthy fats, and fiber.
4. Seeds: Chia, flax, and hemp seeds are high in protein, healthy fats, and fiber, and can be added to smoothies, oatmeal, or salads.
5. Whole grains: Brown rice, quinoa, and oats are high in fiber, protein, and other nutrients.
6. Leafy greens: Spinach, kale, and mustard greens are rich in iron, calcium, and other nutrients.
7. Cruciferous vegetables: Broccoli, cauliflower, and Brussels sprouts are high in fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
8. Berries: Blueberries, raspberries, and strawberries are high in antioxidants and other nutrients[*].
9. Avocado: This fruit is high in healthy fats, fiber, and potassium.
10. Sweet potatoes: These are a good source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals, and can be used in a variety of dishes.

What are the main foods to avoid on a Vegan Plant Based Diet?

A vegan plant-based diet excludes all foods that come from animals, including meat, poultry, fish, dairy products, and eggs[*]. Here is a list of foods to avoid on a vegan plant-based diet:

• Meat: beef, lamb, pork, veal, horse, organ meat, wild meat, etc.
• Poultry: chicken, turkey, goose, duck, quail, etc.
• Fish and seafood: all types of fish, anchovies, shrimp, squid, scallops, calamari, mussels, crab, lobster, and fish sauce.
• Dairy: milk, yogurt, cheese, butter, cream, ice cream, etc.
• Eggs: from chickens, quails, ostriches, and fish.
• Bee products: honey, bee pollen, royal jelly, etc.

It’s important to note that some processed foods may contain animal-derived ingredients, such as gelatin, casein, and whey, so it’s important to read food labels carefully.

Weight Loss Facts

A vegan plant-based diet can be an effective way to lose weight, as it is naturally high in fiber, low in calories, and rich in nutrients. Here are some facts about weight loss on a vegan plant-based diet:

1. Plant-based diets can help you lose weight and keep it off because they are packed with fiber, which helps fill you up, without adding extra calories[*].
2. A study conducted by the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine found that participants who followed a plant-based diet lost an average of 13 pounds in 14 weeks, without calorie counting or exercise.
3. A whole food plant-based lifestyle is an ideal diet plan to lose weight because plant-based foods are naturally more nutritionally dense than most non-vegan meal options.
4. To maximize the fat-burning potential of a vegan plant-based diet, it’s important to avoid highly processed foods, eat more non-starchy vegetables, get enough good quality protein, and prepare meals in advance.
5. Some plant-based foods that are great for weight loss include legumes, tofu, tempeh, nuts, seeds, whole grains, leafy greens, and cruciferous vegetables.

It’s important to note that weight loss is a complex process that involves many factors, including genetics, lifestyle, and environment. A vegan plant-based diet can be a healthy and effective way to lose weight, but it’s important to consult a healthcare professional before making any significant changes to your diet.

Comparing Vegan Plant Based Diet with Other Popular Diets

1. Vegan Plant Based Diet vs. Mediterranean Diet

The Mediterranean Diet, which is often praised for its delightful offerings, offers a culinary voyage that entices with the allure of olive oil, healthy grains, legumes, and lean proteins like fish and fowl. This diet is well-known for its heart-healthy benefits, and for good reason. Embracing a Mediterranean lifestyle entails delighting in a symphony of flavors made from land and marine riches.

With its steadfast dedication to avoiding all animal products, the vegan plant based diet stands out among dietary options. While the Mediterranean diet allows for the occasional inclusion of lean animal proteins, the vegan diet only consumes plant-based foods. On this voyage, you will be accompanied by the vivid colors of fruits and vegetables, the nourishing embrace of whole grains, and the heartiness of legumes.

Nutrient Chronicles: A Comparative Glance

When we look at the nutritional profiles of the two diets, we see several interesting differences:

• Protein Sources: Lean animal proteins are introduced in the Mediterranean diet, whereas legumes, beans, nuts, and seeds serve as protein foundations in the vegan plant-based diet.
• Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Fatty fish is a good source of omega-3s in the Mediterranean diet, which helps with heart health. The vegan plant based diet, on the other hand, obtains omega-3s from sources such as flaxseeds, walnuts, and chia seeds.
• Fiber Bounty: Both diets excel at fiber, enabling healthy digestion, satiety, and metabolic equilibrium. The fiber-rich whole grains, fruits, and vegetables of the vegan diet are in line with your desire for bright health.

Harmonizing Health: Shared and Unique Benefits

Both diets provide commendable health benefits to health-conscious women seeking vitality:

• Cardiovascular Health: The abundance of heart-healthy fats and antioxidants in the Mediterranean diet leads to a strong cardiovascular system. The vegan plant based diet, which is high in soluble fiber and antioxidants, also promotes heart health by lowering cholesterol levels.
• Inflammation Reduction: Both diets have been linked to lower inflammation markers, which is important for preventing chronic diseases and increasing overall well-being.

The decision between various dietary choices becomes a personalized adventure driven by your health objectives and ethical concerns. The vegan plant based diet supports your commitment to compassionate living and healthful energy, whereas the Mediterranean diet celebrates the beauty of balanced pleasure. Your plate becomes a canvas on which you can create a masterpiece of your own happiness.

2. Vegan Plant Based Diet vs. Keto Diet

With its unique approach to fueling the body, the Keto Diet, sometimes known as Ketogenic Diet, has taken the dietary world by storm. Carbohydrates take a second seat in this kingdom, while healthy fats and a reasonable protein consumption reign supreme. What is the major goal? Inducing ketosis, a metabolic condition in which the body uses fat storage for energy. It’s a transformational journey fueled by macronutrient chemistry.

While the keto diet benefits from carbohydrate restriction, the vegan plant based diet benefits from carbohydrate plenty. Your chosen path welcomes the broad spectrum of plant-derived carbs as staples of food, from whole grains to fruits and vegetables. The difference between the two diets is stark: one says goodbye to carbs, while the other welcomes them with open arms.

Health at the Crossroads: Weighing the Impacts

In terms of health effects, these diets present different pictures:

• Weight Loss: Because the keto diet relies on fat metabolism, it can result in quick weight loss. In contrast, the fiber content of the vegan plant based diet promotes a sense of fullness, supporting progressive and lasting weight loss.
• Blood Sugar Control: The carb restriction of the keto diet can help to stabilize blood sugar levels. On the other hand, the vegan diet’s fiber-rich, low-glycemic index foods help to maintain stable blood sugar levels.
• Long-Term Health Implications: The high fat content of the keto diet has generated concerns about cardiovascular health and the possibility of nutritional imbalances. The vegan plant based diet, which is high in plant-based nutrients, provides a broader range of vitamins and minerals that promote long-term health.

Conscience and Compassion: Ethical Dimensions

Aside from health concerns, ethical and environmental concerns emerge:

• Sustainability: The concentration on animal items in the keto diet raises concerns regarding resource use and environmental effect. The vegan plant based diet, on the other hand, supports a more sustainable food system that conserves land, water, and energy resources.
• Ethical Choices: As health-conscious women, you may question the morality of your eating choices. By avoiding the usage of animals for food, the vegan diet mirrors your ideals of compassion for animals.

Your decisions at the crossroads of keto and vegan are more than just nutritional; they reflect your beliefs, ethics, and aspirations for a balanced, healthful existence. The keto diet may appeal to some, while the vivid tapestry of plant-based living may appeal to others. Finally, your journey is directed by your vision of well-being and the legacy you create.

3. Vegan Plant Based Diet vs. Low Carb Diet

Carbohydrates are examined and minimized in the low-carb diet, with a focus on controlled intake. Bread, rice, and sweet delicacies take a back seat in this environment, making room for protein and fat sources to shine. The goal is to keep blood sugar levels stable and to encourage the body to use fat stores for energy.

As a follower of the vegan plant based diet, your plate is brimming with a rainbow of hues and textures taken from nature’s bounty. Your emphasis is not simply on carbohydrate reduction, but also on embracing the nutrient-rich diversity that plants provide. The cornerstone of the diet is founded in the vibrant energy of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes, resulting in a tapestry of nourishment that transcends carb issues.

Nutrition Unveiled: Macro-nutrients and Micro-nutrients

When we look at nutritional profiles, we notice several significant differences:

• Macro-nutrient Composition: While both diets are adaptable, the vegan plant based diet naturally favors moderate carbohydrate intake. In contrast, the low carb diet restricts carbohydrates while promoting fats and proteins.
• Micro-nutrient Diversity: The vegan diet incorporates a wide range of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants due to its dependence on plant sources. In contrast, the low carb diet, with its carb limits, may necessitate careful planning to guarantee enough micronutrient intake.

Vitality and Well-being: Health at the Core

On each nutritional plan, your health journey unfolds differently:

• Metabolic Effects: The strategy of the low carb diet may result in weight loss and improved blood sugar control. The vegan plant based diet, which is high in fiber and nutrients, promotes good digestion and metabolism.
• Energy Levels: The concentration on complex carbs in the vegan diet provides continuous energy throughout the day. The possible energy variations of the low carb diet may have an effect on certain people’s energy levels.
• Overall Well-being: The vegan diet’s broad nutrient profile adds to improved overall well-being. While the low carb diet may be beneficial for certain people, it may necessitate careful monitoring to avoid vitamin shortages.

In your quest for health and vitality, the decision between a vegan plant-based diet and a low carb approach reflects your priorities and dietary choices. As women aged 40 and up, you have the ability to carve a route that is unique to your journey toward vitality and well-being. Your plate becomes a canvas on which you paint your health’s artwork.

FAQs About the Vegan Plant Based Diet

1. Can I get enough protein on a Vegan Plant Based Diet?

Absolutely! One of the most prevalent questions regarding a vegan plant-based diet is whether it contains enough protein. As women who value health and vigor, you’ll be relieved to learn that a well-balanced vegan diet can meet your protein requirements.

Plant protein sources are many and diverse. These nutritious powerhouses provide a diversity of amino acids that are the building blocks of protein, ranging from beans, lentils, chickpeas, and tofu to nuts, seeds, quinoa, and even whole grains like brown rice. They not only fuel your muscles, but they also aid in tissue regeneration and overall health.

Crafting Protein-Rich Meals

Making protein-rich meals is a fun culinary endeavor. Begin your day with a bowl of hearty oats topped with almond butter and chia seeds. For lunch, try a bright salad with chickpeas and quinoa. Explore the wonders of plant-based protein at dinner with dishes like lentil stew or tofu stir-fry. Don’t forget about the pleasures of toasted nuts or a refreshing smoothie made with pea protein powder.

By eating a variety of protein sources, you can guarantee that your body gets all of the important amino acids it requires for good health. So, forget about protein concerns and enjoy the voyage of fueling your body with nature’s wealth. Delicious, plant-powered options lead the way to protein-rich vitality.

2. How do I ensure I’m getting essential nutrients like B12 and Iron?

That is an excellent question! As you continue on your road toward a robust vegan plant-based lifestyle, maintaining appropriate nutrient intake is a critical factor. While plant-based diets are high in nutrients, certain vitamins and minerals may require extra care. Let’s look at how you can make sure you’re getting enough critical nutrients.

Vitamin B12: The Superhero for Nervous System Health

Vitamin B12, which is predominantly found in animal sources, is essential for nerve function and the creation of red blood cells. While getting enough B12 from plant-based meals can be difficult, there are a few options:

• Supplements: Taking a B12 vitamin is a tried and true method. These are readily available and come in a variety of forms, including tablets, capsules, and fortified meals such as plant-based milks and cereals.
• Fortified Foods: Speaking of fortified meals, many plant-based products are B12-enriched, making it easier to achieve your requirements. Check labels for B12 content information.
• Nutritional Yeast: This popular vegan staple often comes fortified with B12. It not only provides this essential nutrition, but it also adds a cheesy flavor to your dishes.

Iron: Powering Your Vitality

Iron is found in both animal and plant meals and is necessary for delivering oxygen in your blood and boosting energy levels. While plant-based iron supplies are plentiful, they are in the form of non-heme iron, which may not be as easily absorbed as heme iron from animal sources. Here’s how to make sure you’re getting enough iron:

• Plant-Based Iron Sources: Iron-rich plant foods such as lentils, chickpeas, tofu, spinach, quinoa, and fortified cereals should be consumed. Combining them with vitamin C-rich foods (such as citrus fruits and bell peppers) boosts iron absorption.
• Cooking Techniques: Soaking and sprouting legumes, for example, can improve iron availability. Cast iron cookware can also help to increase the iron content of your meals.
• Supplements (if needed): If you’re having trouble meeting your iron needs through food alone, talk to your doctor about taking an iron supplement. Regular blood testing can help identify whether or not supplementation is required.

Remember that balance is essential. A diversified and well-rounded plant-based diet can supply the majority of the nutrients you require. It’s always a good idea to check with a trained dietician or healthcare expert to be sure you’re getting enough nutrients. You may thrive on your plant-powered path by combining information, conscious choices, and a splash of creativity in the kitchen.

3. Will a Vegan Plant Based Diet help with weight loss?

Absolutely! A vegan plant-based diet can be an invaluable ally in your quest to achieve and maintain a healthy weight. The diet’s emphasis on full, nutrient-rich meals and high fiber content can help in weight loss. Let’s look at how this method can help you achieve your weight loss goals.

Filling Up on Fiber

Fiber is the unsung weight-loss hero. It fills you full, promotes satiety, and aids in the regulation of your appetite. The vegan plant-based diet is high in fiber since it is high in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, and nuts. These foods not only supply necessary nutrients, but they also keep you full and satisfied for extended periods of time, lowering your desire to overeat.

Calorie Density at Your Advantage

Many plant-based foods have a low calorie density, which means they give less calories per volume of food. Consider a hearty bowl of vegetable-packed soup or a colorful salad – you’re getting satisfying servings without the calorie burden. This allows you to feel full while effectively regulating your calorie consumption.

Healthy Fat Choices

The vegan plant-based diet promotes the consumption of healthful fats from foods such as avocados, nuts, seeds, and olive oil. These fats are not only important for overall health, but they also help with satiety. Incorporating moderate amounts of healthy fats into your meals will help you stay full and satisfied, lowering your chances of overeating.

Mindful Eating and Nourishment

Being conscious of what you eat is essential for healthy weight loss. You are naturally predisposed to make thoughtful food choices when following a vegan plant-based diet. You may build a healthier relationship with food by focusing on nutrient-dense selections and relishing the flavors of whole meals.

Customizing for Your Goals

While a vegan plant-based diet can be useful for weight loss, individual outcomes will vary. Your overall calorie intake, level of physical activity, and personal metabolism are all things to consider. Consider visiting a trained nutritionist before embarking on this trip so that the diet may be tailored to your unique needs and goals.

Finally, the vegan plant-based diet is a path of nourishment that not only sustains your body but also supports your weight-loss goals. You’re taking proactive efforts toward your well-being by appreciating nature’s richness and making thoughtful decisions.

4. Are there potential challenges or side effects to be aware of?

Transitioning to a vegan plant-based diet can result in beneficial benefits, but like with any dietary change, it may require some adaptations. Digestive changes are a common source of anxiety at this period. Let’s look at what you might encounter and how to deal with it properly.

Gentle Shifts in Digestion

Your digestive processes may vary as your body adjusts to a diet higher in fiber and plant-based meals. Increased fiber consumption may cause temporary bloating, gas, or bowel movement changes. This is a normal reaction when your gut microbiota adjusts to the new foods you’re eating.

Here are some pointers to assist you in navigating these changes and promoting digestive comfort:

• Gradual Transition: Gradually transition to a vegan diet. Increase your fiber intake gradually over a few weeks to allow your digestive system to acclimatize.
• Stay Hydrated: Drinking enough of water softens fiber and promotes digestion. Aim for 8 glasses of water every day.
• Chew Thoroughly: Chewing your meal properly promotes digestion and minimizes the likelihood of gas and bloating.
• Cooking Techniques: Certain veggies can be made more digestible by lightly cooking them. Fibers can be broken down by steaming, sautéing, or roasting.
• Probiotic Foods: Include probiotic-rich foods in your diet, such as yogurt or fermented foods. During the changeover, these can help with intestinal health.
• Be Mindful of Beans and Legumes: Beans and legumes, while high in protein and fiber, might induce stomach pain at first. Soaking them before cooking and gradually increasing their consumption can be beneficial.
• Listen to Your Body: Take note of how your body reacts to various foods. Because everyone’s digestive system is different, adjust your options to what works best for you.

Patience and Persistence

Keep in mind that the initial modifications are just temporary. Digestive comfort is likely to improve as your body adjusts to the increased fiber intake. It’s all part of the process of becoming a healthy you. Consultation with a healthcare expert or qualified dietician can provide specialized advice if you’re suffering continuous discomfort or have specific concerns.

Accept the changes as signals of your body’s metamorphosis, and have faith that with time and self-care, your digestive system will find its equilibrium in the realm of plant-based sustenance.

5. How can I make sure my Vegan Diet is balanced and nutritious?

Creating a balanced and nutritious vegan diet is an exciting journey that guarantees your body receives all of the necessary nutrients. Here are some important recommendations to help you plan well-rounded, nutritional meals as you traverse this route to optimal health:

• Embrace the Rainbow: Include a variety of colorful fruits and vegetables in your daily diet. Each color indicates a different combination of nutrients, so aim for a colorful dish.
• Include Protein-Rich Foods: Prioritize plant-based protein sources such as beans, lentils, tofu, tempeh, quinoa, nuts, and seeds as a health-conscious lady. These foods not only include protein but also a variety of vitamins and minerals.
• Prioritize Whole Grains: Brown rice, quinoa, oats, and whole wheat pasta are high in fiber and important minerals. They keep you full and provide you energy for a long time.
• Don’t Skimp on Healthy Fats: Avocados, almonds, seeds, and olive oil are all good sources of healthful fats. These fats are essential for general health and satisfaction.
• Include Vitamin B12 Sources: Because vitamin B12 is found predominantly in animal products, incorporate fortified foods or supplements in your diet to meet your B12 requirements.
• Pay Attention to Iron: Iron-rich plant foods such as legumes, dark leafy greens, and fortified cereals should be consumed. Combine these foods with those high in vitamin C to improve iron absorption.
• Explore plant based Dairy Alternatives: If you like dairy, try plant-based substitutes such as almond milk, soy yogurt, and cashew cheese. These can supply nutrition while remaining consistent with your vegan diet.
• Mind Your Micro-nutrients: Check your intake of calcium, vitamin D, omega-3 fatty acids, and zinc. Excellent sources include leafy greens, fortified plant milks, flaxseeds, chia seeds, walnuts, and seaweed.
• Plan and Prep: Planning your meals ahead of time allows you to make more deliberate decisions and ensures you have a variety of balanced selections on hand. To make cooking easier, prepare ingredients for the week ahead of time.
• Consult a Professional: Consider working with a certified dietitian who specializes in plant-based nutrition if you have specific health objectives or concerns. They can provide tailored advice to match your specific requirements.

Remember that diversity and mindfulness are the keys to a successful vegan path. You may design a diet that supports your vitality and well-being by eating a diverse range of plant foods, being mindful of nutritional sources, and listening to your body. As a health-conscious woman over the age of 40, you have the ability to flourish on the abundance that the vegan plant-based diet provides.

Final Thoughts

You’ve gone on a wonderful investigation of food options as a health-conscious woman over the age of 40, seeking the best path for your well-being. We’ve dived into a domain of vibrancy, compassion, and sustainability via the prism of the vegan plant-based diet. Let’s review the lessons learned and applaud your progress.

Comparing Diets: Unveiling the Diversity

During our comparative journey, we discovered the differences between the vegan plant-based diet and the Mediterranean, keto, and low carb diets. Each dietary approach makes its own promises, allowing you to choose based on your health objectives, values, and aspirations.

Plant-Powered Advantages: Nourishing Body and Earth

The vegan plant-based diet is a shining example of health and sustainability. It not only provides a plethora of health benefits, such as weight management, heart health, and a lower chance of chronic diseases, but it also builds a profound connection with the environment. By embracing plant-based living, you have a significant impact on the health of the world.

Empowered Choices: Your Personal Journey

Remember that your nutritional path is unique to you as you reflect on the insights obtained. Your path is a representation of your priorities, whether you select the colorful embrace of a vegan plate, the Mediterranean’s Mediterranean delights, or the keto’s controlled trip. Make decisions that are consistent with your personal health goals and ethical concerns.

Nurturing Health and Leaving a Legacy

You are in command of your health, navigating the waters of diet and mindful living. Your decisions will reverberate through time, leaving a legacy of vitality and harmony. With each bite, you’re nurturing your health and the world as you experience plant-based joys, embrace the diversity of nutrients, and enjoy the flavors that nature provides.

The vegan plant-based diet shines as a light of wellbeing and compassion in the tapestry of your health journey. Your decisions reverberate across the environment, leaving a legacy of aware living. Accept the journey, listen to your body’s knowledge, and make decisions that are good for your health and good for the planet.

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