Protein is an essential macronutrient for the body to function. Without protein, the body would not be able to aid in hormone production, muscle building, cell repair, and blood clotting. Plant-based proteins tend to have high fiber content, vitamins, and minerals essential for a healthy diet.

Plant-based products continue to increase in popularity, and because of this, it is important to know the benefits and drawbacks when following this type of diet.

Benefits

-Enhanced Digestion – Since most plant-based foods are rich in fiber, they aid in digestion. This means fiber helps decrease constipation, control blood glucose, increase satiety, and lower cholesterol.

-Enhanced metabolism – Plant-based protein is digested more slowly than carbohydrates and fats. This is due to the high content of fiber it contains. The more fiber, the healthier your gut microbiota is going to be.

-Cardiovascular health – Cholesterol comes from animal products, therefore, people that consume little or no animal products tend to have lower cholesterol. A diet low in saturated fat is key to a healthy heart.

-High in vitamins and minerals – A diet rich in nutrients from vitamins and minerals is important for good health.

Drawbacks

-Most plant-based products do not provide complete protein. This means they do not provide all the amino acids the body needs to function. Therefore, it is important to eat a variety of plant proteins to get an adequate amount of them.

-Vitamin B12 Deficiency – Supplementation of vitamin B12 may be needed if deficiency is present. People that follow a plant-based diet are at higher risk of developing a deficiency due to this vitamin only being present in meat and dairy products.  

-Impaired absorption – Some foods such as whole grains, legumes, and soy products contain a compound called phytates that blocks absorption from the digestive system.

-Some commercially prepared plant-based proteins are often processed.  This could possibly lead to weight gain and the development of other chronic diseases.

Keep in mind…

There are many alternative options for plant-based proteins. Here are a few examples of these foods.

Lentils

Nuts and seeds

Tofu

Beans

Peas

Greens                                                  

Potatoes

Broccoli                                                 

Spinach

Soymilk

Plant-based proteins have become very trendy in the last few years and do have many benefits. For overall health the important thing to focus on is a diet with the recommended amount of protein so the body can function properly.