Is it better to eat plant­-based foods than rely on meat?

Is it better to eat plant­-based foods than rely on meat?

Subject : Science and Tech

Section: BIOTECHNOLOGY

Context:

A recent article turned the spotlight on dietary habits – is it better to turn to fully plant based foods and avoid meat? The article relied on several existing studies but stopped short of recommending either way.

A Comparative Analysis

• Plant­ based diets have been known to reduce the risk of diabetes, lower LDL cholesterol and non­ HDL cholesterol, improve weight loss,  reduce progression of kidney disease and risk of stroke,  different types of cancer, especially colon cancer and breast cancer besides improving blood  pressure, irritable bowel syndrome and irritable bowel disease.
• Plant­ based foods with fibre, protein, healthy fats and phytonutrients can improve gut health whereas animal­ based foods cause  gut dysbiosis.
• Animal­ based foods are devoid of fibre and red meat is especially a source of saturated fat. Plant based foods also alter composition of gut microbiota as compared to animal­ based foods.
• Since plant­ based foods contain antioxidant and anti­inflammatory properties they are better.
• The worst culprit is processed meat, whether smoked, canned, fermented or preserved as they include added sodium and preservatives.  Chemicals such as nitrates, nitrosamines, could cause gastrointestinal  cancers as against unprocessed red meat.

What is plant-based meat?

• “Plant-based” refers to products that bio-mimic or replicate meat, seafood, eggs, and milk derived from animals — by looking, smelling, and tasting like them.
• Main ingredients of plant-based meat include –
• Protein – The proteins in these foods may come from soya, peas, mushrooms, potatoes, fava beans, brown rice, or other sources.
• Colouring – Natural pigments from vegetable extracts, spirulina, and malt mimic the red hues of meat and brown when cooked.
• Juiciness – Plant oils may be added for juicy texture, flavour, and the appearance of marbled fat.
• Nutrients – Some recipes contain vegetables, nuts, and seeds, along with the vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber they provide.