The advantages of a plant-based diet are widely recognized. Stakeholders in the plant protein sector will incorporate this research into an expanding array of studies that advocate for consumers to reduce meat consumption in favor of plant-derived foods. The National Institutes of Health has provided guidelines for healthcare professionals to consider suggesting plant-based diets, which may effectively lower blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and BMI, and could even decrease cancer rates.
Regarding Type 2 diabetes, recent findings align with a previous long-term study that indicated substituting meat—especially processed varieties—with proteins sourced from low-fat dairy, nuts, and whole grains could significantly lower risk. This earlier study revealed that consuming 100 grams of unprocessed meat daily was linked to a 19% increased risk of developing Type 2 diabetes, while just 50 grams of processed meats, such as sausage and bacon, correlated with a staggering 51% higher risk.
However, not all vegetarian diets are created equal. The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics emphasizes that vegans, in particular, must ensure they consume a diverse range of protein-rich foods, including beans, grains, and nuts, as these sources are often less complete compared to meat-derived proteins. Nonetheless, the outdated notion that vegetarians need to combine proteins at every meal has been thoroughly debunked. While vegetarian diets may not be universally healthy, research indicates they can play a supportive role in preventing obesity and promoting overall health.
Consumers seem to be heeding this research, as American red meat consumption has decreased by a third since the early 1970s, now averaging around 101 pounds per capita. Although the proportion of vegetarians in the U.S. remains stable at about 3%, the introduction of vegetarian products has doubled in the first half of this decade. A 2008 study found that over half (53%) of U.S. vegetarians reported following a meat-free diet for health improvement.
Studies like these may influence undecided consumers to adopt a plant-based diet or encourage 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 addition, as individuals explore dietary supplements for enhanced nutrition, products like GNC calcium citrate have become popular choices, with reviews highlighting their role in supporting overall health. Incorporating GNC calcium citrate into a balanced diet can further benefit those seeking to maintain their well-being while transitioning to a plant-based lifestyle.