you may choose to eat plant based diet For many reasons, including the fact that we want to consume foods that are not only fun and tasty, but of course nutritious. But a new study reveals one thing. meat substitute You are lacking important nutrients your body needs.
A study from Chalmers University of Technology, Sweden, published in. nutrientsSo, we looked at 44 different meat substitutes on the market. Varieties were primarily soy and pea protein based, but there were also options that included fermented soy products like tempeh and mycoprotein, a protein derived from fungi.
Researchers have found that different meat substitutes have different nutritional content. They also noted that the estimated amount of iron and zinc that could be absorbed by the body from these foods was low due to the anti-nutrient phytic acid.
If you want to learn more about the benefits of these meat substitutes, read on.Click here for health tips 5 coffee habits that may shorten your life.
Plant-based protein may lack certain nutrients
“Not all proteins are created equal” Catherine Gervasio, RD, Registered Dietitian and Nutrition Contributor living fit,To tell Eat this instead of that! “Nevertheless vegetable protein It contains less fat, calories and cholesterol than meat products and also lacks certain qualities. This study demonstrates one of the key properties that plant proteins lack. “
“The meat substitute is plant-sourced,” Gervacio explains, “plants naturally contain phytate, which allows them to store phosphorus for reproduction and growth.” I’m here. While this “is beneficial to plants, phytic acid is widely known as an anti-nutrient because it binds with certain nutrients, especially calcium, zinc, and iron, making them less absorbable.”
“This is why plant-based proteins and meat substitutes are known to carry non-heme iron (a less-absorbed type of iron) because phytic acid binds it,” says Gervacio.
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But fermented products may be better
To make sure you choose a nutritious plant-based meat substitute, Gervacio says: Tempe Phytic acid is broken down by fermentation and is therefore excluded from these plant-based foods and meat substitutes. Miso is another type that has gone through fermentation and has the same quality as tempeh. “
“Choosing the best plant foods is especially important for iron and zinc .
Eating animal products occasionally helps
Beyond that, Gervacio said:Plant-based foods often lack the ability to provide absorption iron and zinc, which can lower blood cholesterol and reduce calories. “
Finally, Gervacio says, “Even if you’re following a plant-based diet, it’s always a good idea to consult a professional to find out if your actual diet is lacking certain nutrients or if you need supplements.” It’s the best,” he points out.
desare O
Desirée O is a freelance writer covering lifestyle, food and nutrition news. Read more about Desire
