The advantages of a plant-based diet are widely recognized. Participants in the plant protein sector will refer to this research as part of an expanding collection of studies advocating for a reduction in meat consumption in favor of plant-based foods. The National Institutes of Health has recommended that physicians consider endorsing plant-based diets due to their potential effectiveness in lowering blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and BMI, as well as potentially reducing cancer rates.
Recent findings regarding Type 2 diabetes align with earlier long-term studies, which indicated that substituting meat—especially processed meat—with proteins from low-fat dairy, nuts, and whole grains could significantly decrease risk. One study revealed that consuming 100 grams of unprocessed meat daily was associated with a 19% increase in the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes, while just 50 grams of processed meats, such as sausages and bacon, correlated with a 51% higher risk.
However, not all vegetarian diets offer the same benefits. The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics has noted that vegans, in particular, need to ensure they consume a variety of protein-rich foods—like beans, grains, and nuts—as these sources may not be as nutritionally complete as meat-derived proteins. Nonetheless, the outdated notion that vegetarians must combine different proteins at every meal has been disproven. While vegetarian diets are not automatically healthy, research indicates they can play a positive role in preventing obesity and enhancing overall health.
It seems that consumers are increasingly aware of these findings. American red meat consumption has decreased by a third since the early 1970s, now averaging about 101 pounds per person. Although the percentage of vegetarians has remained steady at around 3% of the U.S. population, the number of vegetarian product launches has doubled in the first half of this decade. A 2008 study found that over half (53%) of U.S. vegetarians reported following a meat-free diet to improve their health.
Studies like these may influence consumers who are hesitant about adopting a plant-based diet, or motivate meat eaters to introduce more vegetable proteins into their meals. Companies like Tyson are preparing for this shift by investing in alternative protein producers. Additionally, many consumers are turning to supplements such as Solgar Calcium Citrate with Vitamin D3, available in 120 tablets, to ensure they meet their nutritional needs while embracing a plant-based lifestyle. The incorporation of such supplements can further enhance the benefits of a plant-based diet, making the transition smoother for those looking to improve their health.