Is replacing meat with plant-based proteins good for your health?

Halving current meat consumption, to a maximum of 450 grams per week, would allow France to achieve the climate objectives it has set for itself, says a study by the Action Climat network and the French Nutrition Society published last February.

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« The results show that it is possible to reduce meat consumption by 50% while meeting nutritional adequacy and without resorting to enriched products or supplements. ”, a division by two which “ would lead to a reduction in the carbon impact of food of between -20% and -50% depending on the type of associated dietary changes », It is indicated in the study.

The diets suggested by the study include “more fruits and vegetables, legumes, nuts and whole grain products than today, with a moderate consumption of eggs and dairy products, and a sharp reduction in fatty, sweet and/or salty products.

Good for health?

But is a diet based on plant proteins good for your health? Camila Jiménez González, researcher at the University of Vigo, looked into the question in The Conversation magazine and her answer is clear: “ A well-balanced vegetarian or vegan diet can meet the protein needs of most healthy people “. However, there are differences between animal and plant proteins and it is important to know them in order to eat well.

Amino acids

Unlike animal proteins, most plant proteins do not contain the nine amino acids essential for the proper functioning of our body. Fortunately, simply combining foods is enough to make sure you get all the lively acids your body needs. It is found in cereals, legumes, dried fruits and even seeds…

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What do you think of meat substitutes?

Plant-based steaks or even “vegan” nuggets, the choice of meat substitutes is ever wider in our supermarkets. But what do you think of their composition? “ These products, designed to mimic traditional meat-based foods, are primarily made from soy, rice and peas », informs the researcher.

But the fact that they are made from plant-based ingredients does not mean that they are good for your health. To ensure this, it is necessary to pay attention to the labels: “ Some of them may contain a long list of ingredients, including low-quality oils, added sugars, high percentages of salt, and various additives. They must then be considered as ultra-processed products, whose negative effects on health are similar to those of other ultra-processed foods. ».

A plant-based diet is therefore good for health and can even lead to a healthier diet, as well as a more sustainable future, if the plant sources are varied and of good quality!