Trendy plant-based meats could be triggering health issues less frequently seen in humans who prefer to eat the real thing, a new study warns.
Research published in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition compared the impacts of protein alternatives, scientifically known as plant-based meat analogues (PBMAs), to actual meat dishes — and the experts didn’t necessarily like what they found.
“Plant-based meats may not be as good for you as once thought,” says a new study.
During an eight-week period of analysis, it turned out that actual beef provided more protein than its plant-based counterpart — while typically being higher in sodium, a problem for those struggling with hypertension.
Additionally, PBMAs contained high levels of potassium and calcium, possibly triggering issues with blood sugar control in ways not observed among meat eaters.
“This suggests that assumptions of health benefits from consuming [plant-based meats] may not be directly extrapolated to those consuming a [plant-based diet],” the researchers said.
Previous research found that plant-based diets have shown little health benefit compared to their counterpart foods.
In another study, veganism was found to boost the female libido by up to 380%.
The medical news comes as well-known brand Beyond Meat experiences declining sales. The company has been making attempts to cut fat from its products by 60% recently.
And while the jury may still be out, that hasn’t stopped the likes of Bill Gates from giving meat alternatives a strong vote of confidence.
“I think eventually these products will be very good, even though their share is small today,” Gates told Redditors in a recent online discussion.
