A unique study conducted by King’s College London challenged identical twins to follow drastically different dietary patterns to observe the impact on their bodies. The experiment involved one twin adopting a plant-based vegan diet, while the other twin followed an omnivorous diet including meat, dairy, and fish. Both twins consumed the same number of daily calories and engaged in identical gym workouts for a 12-week period.
The twins, Hugo and Ross Turner, allowed the BBC to document their dietary journey, shedding light on how their bodies responded to the contrasting diets. Hugo, who followed the vegan diet, reported feeling an increase in energy levels and a more stable sugar intake throughout the day. On the other hand, Ross, who consumed meat in his diet, experienced fluctuating energy levels, with moments of high energy followed by significant lulls.
Surprisingly, the study did not yield groundbreaking results, with no significant differences observed between the twins at the end of the 12-week period. However, Hugo did note a drop in his cholesterol levels, weight loss, and an improved resistance to type two diabetes. Interestingly, Ross saw increases in muscle mass but also gained fat, resulting in a higher body fat percentage and weight compared to his brother.
One notable finding was the impact of diet on gut bacteria diversity, as Ross experienced a severe decrease in gut bacteria diversity compared to his brother on the vegan diet. This variation could potentially influence susceptibility to illnesses, highlighting the importance of dietary choices on overall health and microbiome composition.
Overall, the study offers valuable insights into the effects of vegan and omnivorous diets on identical twins, showcasing how individual responses to diets can vary. While both diets present their own advantages and challenges, the study emphasizes the significance of tailored nutrition plans to meet individual health goals and requirements.