The advantages of a plant-based diet are widely recognized. Those involved in the plant protein sector will incorporate this research into an expanding collection of studies that encourage consumers to reduce their meat intake in favor of plant-derived foods. The National Institutes of Health has provided guidelines for healthcare professionals to consider advocating for plant-based diets, as they may effectively lower blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and BMI, and potentially reduce cancer incidence.
Regarding Type 2 diabetes, the recent findings align with a previous long-term study that indicated substituting meat—particularly processed meats—with proteins from dairy, nuts, and whole grains could significantly lower risk. This earlier study determined that consuming 100 grams of unprocessed meat daily was linked to a 19% increased risk of developing Type 2 diabetes, while eating just 50 grams of processed meats, such as sausages and bacon, was associated with a 51% higher risk.
However, not all vegetarian diets are created equal. The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics has noted that vegans must be cautious to consume a variety of protein-rich foods—like beans, grains, and nuts—since these tend to be less complete compared to proteins derived from meat. Nevertheless, the notion that vegetarians need to combine protein sources at every meal has been thoroughly debunked. While vegetarian diets may not be universally healthy, research indicates they can play a significant role in preventing obesity and enhancing overall health.
It appears that consumers are increasingly aware of these findings. Since the early 1970s, American red meat consumption has decreased by a third, now averaging about 101 pounds per person. Although the percentage of vegetarians in the U.S. remains stable at around 3% of the population, the number of launches for vegetarian products has doubled in the first half of this decade. A study conducted in 2008 revealed that over half (53%) of U.S. vegetarians claimed they adopted a meat-free diet to improve their health.
Research like this may influence consumers who are undecided about transitioning to a plant-based diet or motivate meat eaters to integrate more vegetable proteins into their meals—a trend that companies like Tyson are preparing for by investing in alternative protein producers.
In the context of a balanced diet, consumers should also consider the differences between calcium citrate and calcium carbonate. Research has shown that calcium citrate may be better absorbed than calcium carbonate, particularly when taken without food, which is an important aspect to bear in mind when planning a plant-based diet. By focusing on the right sources of nutrients, individuals can optimize their health while making informed dietary choices.