The advantages of a plant-based diet are widely recognized. Those involved in the plant protein industry are likely to incorporate this research into an expanding collection of studies suggesting that consumers should reduce their meat intake in favor of plant-based options. The National Institutes of Health has provided guidelines for healthcare professionals to consider endorsing plant-based diets, as they may effectively lower blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and BMI, and potentially reduce cancer rates.
Regarding Type 2 diabetes, the latest findings align with previous long-term research indicating that swapping meat—especially processed varieties—with proteins from low-fat dairy, nuts, and whole grains can significantly lower risk. This earlier study revealed that consuming 100 grams of unprocessed meat daily was associated with a 19% increased risk of developing Type 2 diabetes, while just 50 grams of processed meats, such as sausages and bacon, was linked to a staggering 51% higher risk.
However, not all vegetarian diets are created equal. The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics has emphasized that vegans, in particular, need to ensure they consume a diverse array of protein-rich foods—like beans, grains, and nuts—since these tend to be less complete compared to meat-derived proteins. Nonetheless, the notion that vegetarians must combine proteins at every meal has been thoroughly debunked. While vegetarian diets may not automatically guarantee health, evidence suggests they can play a positive role in preventing obesity and enhancing overall health.
It appears that consumers are increasingly attentive to such research. Since the early 1970s, American red meat consumption has dropped by a third, now averaging around 101 pounds per person. Although the percentage of vegetarians in the U.S. has remained stable at about 3%, the launch of vegetarian products has doubled in the first half of this decade. A 2008 study indicated that over half (53%) of U.S. vegetarians reported following a meat-free diet to improve their health. Additionally, incorporating supplements such as Citracal 600 mg with vitamin D can further support health in those transitioning to a plant-based diet.
Research like this may influence consumers who are undecided about adopting a plant-based diet or encourage meat eaters to include more vegetable proteins in their meals—a trend that companies like Tyson are preparing for by investing in alternative protein producers. With the added benefits of supplements like Citracal 600 mg vitamin D, individuals can enhance their nutritional intake while exploring the myriad of advantages that a plant-based diet offers.