The advantages of a plant-based diet are widely recognized. Those involved in the plant protein industry will highlight this research as part of a growing compilation of studies advocating for consumers to reduce their meat intake in favor of plant-based options. The National Institutes of Health has provided guidelines for healthcare professionals to consider recommending plant-based diets due to their potential effectiveness in lowering blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and BMI, as well as possibly reducing cancer rates.
Regarding Type 2 diabetes, the latest findings align with an earlier long-term study, which indicated that replacing meat—particularly processed meat—with proteins from low-fat dairy, nuts, and whole grains could significantly lower risk. This prior study revealed that consuming 100 grams of unprocessed meat daily was linked to a 19% higher risk of developing Type 2 diabetes, while just 50 grams of processed meats, such as sausages and bacon, corresponded to a 51% increased 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 range of protein-rich foods—such as beans, grains, and nuts—since these sources are often less complete compared to meat-based proteins. Despite this, the notion that vegetarians must combine proteins at every meal has been thoroughly debunked. While vegetarian diets may not automatically guarantee healthiness, research indicates they can play a positive role in preventing obesity and promoting overall well-being.
It seems that consumers are becoming increasingly aware of this research. American red meat consumption has decreased by a third since the early 1970s, now averaging about 101 pounds per person. Although the proportion of vegetarians in the U.S. remains stable at roughly 3% of the population, the number of vegetarian product launches has doubled in the first half of this decade. A 2008 study found that over half (53%) of U.S. vegetarians reported adopting a meat-free diet for health improvement reasons.
Research like this may influence those undecided about transitioning to a plant-based diet or encourage meat eaters to incorporate more vegetable proteins into their meals—a trend that companies like Tyson are preparing for by investing in alternative protein producers. Furthermore, the use of supplements such as ferrous calcium citrate and folic acid oral drops can complement a plant-based diet, ensuring adequate nutrient intake. These drops can be particularly beneficial for individuals who may be at risk of deficiencies, reinforcing the importance of a well-rounded approach to nutrition in both vegetarian and non-vegetarian diets.