Fake-meat products from companies like Beyond Meat and Impossible Foods are plant-based but highly processed, leaving consumers wondering about their nutritional value and health effects. While they contain fewer saturated fats and some fiber compared to real meat, they also tend to have more sodium and fall into the ultraprocessed food category.
Recent studies have shown mixed results regarding the health effects of plant-based meat alternatives, with some reporting benefits like lower cholesterol levels and weight loss, while others finding no significant differences compared to real meat consumption. Experts suggest that more research is needed, funded independently from the industry, to confirm the potential health benefits of these products.
Despite the uncertainties, experts agree that plant-based meats can serve as a stepping stone towards a more plant-forward diet that is beneficial for both health and the environment. They recommend incorporating more whole, less processed plant proteins like beans, lentils, and tofu into the diet, as well as opting for fish and chicken as healthier alternatives to red and processed meats. Ultimately, making these dietary shifts can help reduce the risks of various health issues like heart disease and Type 2 diabetes, while also being more affordable.
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