As more and more research emerges regarding the potential health risks and environmental impacts of meat consumption, many people are looking for healthier and more sustainable ways to eat.
Additionally, clinical research has demonstrated that whole food plant-based diets can be beneficial for preventing or treating chronic diseases like heart disease, diabetes, and certain types of cancer.
So, it’s no surprise that plant-based meat alternatives are becoming more popular. These meatless “meat” products are getting tastier and cheaper, making them more accessible than ever.
But some people are concerned that these plant-based substitutions may not be as healthy as they initially seem.
What Are Plant-Based Meats?
Plant-based “meats” are designed to mimic real meat’s taste, texture, and appearance. They are made from a variety of plant-based ingredients.
Each brand and product will have a different recipe, but common ingredients include:
- soy
- peas
- tofu
- seitan
- tempeh
- jackfruit
They also include binders and fillers like flour, potato starch, and oils. Some brands also add flavors, colors, and other ingredients to make their products taste more like traditional meat.
Are Plant-Based Alternatives Better Than Meat?
Many clinical studies over the past few years have confirmed that plant-based meats are generally more nutritious and potentially less harmful to your health than traditional meats.
Even a partial replacement of meat with plant-based alternatives can improve the quality of your diet.
It depends on the particular product and brand, but plant-based meats generally provide significantly more fiber and healthy fats without adding excess calories.
One concern that has been raised about plant-based meats is their sodium content. Some products contain high amounts of salt, which can harm people with high blood pressure or other health conditions.
Another concern is how plant-based meats tend to have less protein than traditional meats. However, protein deficiencies are very rare. You are highly unlikely to become protein deficient if you eat a normal amount of food, even if you don’t eat meat.
Prioritize Whole Plants
While plant-based meats can be a healthier alternative to traditional meat, it’s important to remember that they are still processed foods.
A plant-based diet can be an excellent choice if you are trying to optimize your health.
However, it’s important to remember that plant-based diets are not just about removing meat and animal products from your diet. A healthy plant-based diet prioritizes whole, unprocessed plant foods like vegetables, fruits, beans, nuts, seeds, and whole grains.
Plant-based meats can be a great way to reduce your meat consumption without missing out on the taste and satisfaction of your favorite meals. Just be sure to include plenty of other vegetables in your diet.
