Early this week, Andrea Meza was crowned the new Miss Universe. The annual competition was hosted at Hollywood’s Simonile Hard Rock venue. The Mexican beauty follows South Africa’s Zozibini Tunzi who won the competition last year.
Beauty goes beyond looks
In a way that’s similar to Zozi’s approach, Andrea is outspoken about beauty standards and how they affect people in our society.
“We live in a society that is more and more is more than advanced,” she said in response to a question. “[And] as we advance as a society, we’ve also advanced with stereotypes. Nowadays beauty isn’t the only way we look. For me, beauty radiates not only in our spirit. But in our hearts and the way that we conduct ourselves. Never permit someone to tell you that you’re not valuable.”
Who is Andrea Meza, the newly-elected Miss Universe?
Not only does Andrea describe herself as an advocate for gender equality. But she is also a vegan who opts to follow a healthy, plant-based lifestyle. She regularly treats her 1.5 million Instagram followers to delicious vegan recipes. These often feature watermelon ceviche, tofu salads and granola bowls.
Numerous studies have linked the plant-based lifestyle to better health overall, ranging from a healthier gut, better skin, and better brain function. Here are a few reasons you should opt for more plant-based eating, like Andrea:
1. It helps fight inflammation
When we opt for fruits, vegetables and whole grains instead of processed foods and meats, our inflammation levels can be lowered. Especially when these are high in phytochemicals and antioxidants because they help to neutralize toxins from our environment and diet.
Dr. Murray from the Anderson Health Centre explains that antioxidants in plants function to reduce inflammation by grabbing free radicals that can throw your body off balance. Inflammation is at the heart of all diseases. When it gets chronic, it starts to damage the cells of the body. Therefore, the more we can do to reduce it in our body, the better our overall health.
2. It strengthens your immune system
When our meals feature a variety of colorful and tasty plants, we get the benefit of essential nutrients that processed foods cannot offer. These include minerals, antioxidants, phytochemicals, and vitamins. As a result, the body is better able to fight off infection from viruses, bacteria, and other harmful pathogens. It can also help to prevent diseases like cancer.
3. Plants help you maintain a healthy weight
Not only do plants consist of fibre that can improve your gut health, but it also helps to keep you fuller for longer. When our body is properly nourished, the need to keep snacking constantly is lessened. Over time, you may even feel your cravings for unhealthy foods decrease. Find out whether the vegan diet or the Mediterranean diet is better for weight loss.
It is clear that plant-based eating has benefited Andrea Meza, the new Miss Universe
In addition to contributing to her stunning skin, lush hair and sculpted body, her habit of plant-based eating probably has a hand in her smarts as well. The Mexican beauty has a degree in software engineering.
Moreover, in her bio, she puts that she is proud to be a woman who graduated in a male-dominated field of study. Her passion for fitness and movement led her to launch her own clothing line, Andrea Meza Activewear. She is a big fan of both Crossfit and extreme sports.
Miss Universe for Gender Equality
In a statement released by the Miss Universe Organisation, Andrea expressed her gratitude for the honor of being selected. “It is a dream come true to wear the Miss Universe crown, and I hope to serve the world through my advocacy for equality in the year to come and beyond.”
She is now set to make a move to New York, where she aims to utilize her platform in the promotion of women’s rights and put an end to gender-based violence.
“I feel so committed [to] this project because I have wanted this for years and years,” the newly elected Miss Universe says.
“Now that I’m here, now that I have this opportunity, I don’t want to waste it.”
“It’s important to let the world know that we can do something about it, and we don’t have to leave everything to the government or world leaders,” she adds. “We have the change in our hands.”
Andrea also works closely with the Municipal Institute for Women in the finding of equal opportunities for women in Mexico. The organisation also aims to end gender violence. Both her native country and hometown are obviously close to her heart, as she is an ambassador for Chihuahua Tourism.
References:
Alexander, H. 2019. University of Texas, MD Anderson Centre. https://www.mdanderson.org/publications/focused-on-health/5-benefits-of-a-plant-based-diet.h20-1592991.html
Miss Universe. Andrea Meza. https://www.missuniverse.com/andrea-meza
