The advantages of a plant-based diet are widely recognized. Players in the plant protein sector will incorporate this research into a growing compilation of studies advocating for a reduction in meat consumption in favor of plant-based options. The National Institutes of Health has provided guidelines suggesting that physicians recommend plant-based diets, as they may effectively lower blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and BMI, and even help decrease cancer rates.
Regarding Type 2 diabetes, the latest findings align with a previous long-term study indicating that substituting meat, particularly processed varieties, with proteins from low-fat dairy, nuts, and whole grains could significantly mitigate risk. This earlier research revealed that consuming 100 grams of unprocessed meat daily was linked to a 19% increased risk of Type 2 diabetes, while just 50 grams of processed meats, such as sausages and bacon, corresponded to a 51% higher risk.
However, not all vegetarian diets are created equal. The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics specifically warns that vegans should ensure they consume a variety of protein-rich foods—like beans, grains, and nuts—since these tend to be less complete compared to meat-derived proteins. The outdated notion that vegetarians must combine proteins at every meal has been thoroughly debunked. While vegetarian diets might not be inherently healthy, research indicates they could play a positive role in preventing obesity and enhancing overall health.
It seems that consumers are increasingly aware of this research. Since the early 1970s, American red meat consumption has plummeted by a third, now averaging around 101 pounds per capita. Although the proportion of vegetarians remains stable at about 3% of the U.S. population, the number of vegetarian product launches has doubled in the first half of this decade. A 2008 study indicated that over half (53%) of U.S. vegetarians adopted a meat-free diet primarily for health benefits.
Such studies could influence consumers who are undecided about adopting a plant-based diet or motivate meat eaters to integrate more plant proteins into their meals. This trend is something companies like Tyson are preparing for by investing in alternative protein producers. However, it is important to note that some individuals may experience side effects, such as calcium citrate diarrhea, when transitioning to a plant-based diet without proper planning. Therefore, it is crucial for consumers to be informed about dietary changes to avoid potential issues like calcium citrate diarrhea, which could arise from inadequate nutrient intake.