Going vegan doesn’t mean you have to stick with tofu and veggie burgers as your only options. Many plant-based meat alternatives are available, including breakfast sausages, chicken nuggets, fish filets, and even juicy burgers that mimic the texture and flavor of real meat.
But how healthy are these vegan meats? According to experts, they have both merits and shortcomings. While some vegan meats can replicate the taste and texture of animal products so well that even carnivores might not notice the difference, others may be heavily processed and defeat the purpose of eating them for health or sustainability reasons.
Some benefits of vegan meat alternatives include:
* Decreased saturated fat intake, which is beneficial for heart health
* Fewer calories than some animal-based options
* Rich in fiber, which supports digestive health and reduces risk of heart disease and strokes
* Rich in polyphenols with antioxidant effects that may reduce cancer risk and improve heart health
However, there are also concerns about the processing of these products. Some vegan meats can contain more sodium, saturated fat, and added ingredients than animal-based options.
To make informed choices, look for short ingredient lists and be mindful of sodium content. It’s also important to remember that an ideal vegan diet includes protein from whole foods like nuts, beans, seeds, lentils, tofu, and whole grains. Vegan meat alternatives can be a healthy option when used occasionally as a quick meal or as part of a balanced diet.
Source: https://www.delish.com/food-news/a61611943/is-vegan-meat-healthy/