Every day, more and more people are eating plant-based meats. Fortunately, today there are many healthier and more delicious options for eating the most delicious dishes that were conventionally consumed with animal products.
And they’re not even made with meat!
For meat lovers, this may sound ridiculous, but there are several alternatives that perfectly substitute the taste of meat. In addition, these alternatives provide a series of nutrients that optimize the food and make it richer in terms of nutritional contribution.
What is Plant-Based Meat?
Plant-based meat is used to describe foods that mimic the appearance and taste of an animal's meat but are made from plants. This is a great option for people who have decided to stop consuming animal products.
3 Plant-Based Meat Alternatives
Brands that make plant-based meats make their products from plants. Some people refer to these meats as "fake meats". If you are vegan, you should read very well the ingredients that each product contains because some brands often use other animal products such as egg or milk.
However, most brands tend to use only plant-based ingredients and exclude any animal products.
1. Pea Protein
Pea protein isn’t really peas, but an extract of the proteins in split peas. While it can be used in protein bars and shakes, it is also a popular choice as a plant-based meat alternative.
2. Soybeans
This is one of the most common types of legumes. This plant-based protein can be consumed whole or in processed forms, but it is also a popular plant-based meat alternative.
3. Tofu
Tofu is high in nutrients like calcium and vitamin B12, and is very high in protein. This has made it a top choice for plant-based meat alternatives since the market’s inception.
Nutritional Benefits of Eating Vegetable Meats
As mentioned earlier, plant-based meats can have important health benefits. They can even provide extra nutrients that animal meat does not naturally contain.
One of the most important benefits is reflected in health. A recent study showed that people who decreased their consumption of animal meat improved their fiber intake levels and decreased their consumption of saturated fats. While people who regularly consumed red meat were found to have some risk factors for cardiovascular disease and high cholesterol.
How to Choose Healthier Vegetable Meats?
Although the consumption of vegetable meat can have health benefits, it has been shown that vegetable meat provides a higher amount of sodium, so not everything is perfect.
When buying any product, it is advisable to thoroughly review the nutritional table of each one. By doing this, you will be aware of the ingredients you are consuming and will be able to choose the best option.
And lastly, do not forget that meat consumption should provide a significant amount of protein. Verify that the product contains some type of vegetable protein such as pea protein. This way you can be sure that the product you choose will provide you with the necessary nutrients for a balanced diet.
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