ZOE Science & Nutrition

Is plant-based meat healthy? What the research shows with Prof. Christopher Gardner

06 Jun 2024

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Meat consumption continues to be high in both the US and the UK. Yet many governments advise reducing meat consumption, particularly red meat, due to both environmental and health concerns. In this episode, we delve into the sizzling world of meat alternatives. They promise sustainability, animal welfare, and better health. Buzzwords like "plant-based" and "meat-free" proudly adorn their packaging. But are they actually healthy? Or should we consider them as ultra-processed foods and avoid them? Christopher Gardner is a Professor of Medicine at Stanford University and the Director of the Stanford Prevention Research Centre, and a world-leading expert in how the food that we eat impacts our health. 🌱 Try our new plant based wholefood supplement - Daily 30 *Naturally high in copper which contributes to normal energy yielding metabolism and the normal function of the immune system Learn how your body responds to food 👉 zoe.com/podcast for 10% off Follow ZOE on Instagram. Timecodes: 00:00 Introduction 01:25 Quickfire questions 03:50 What is a meat alternative? 05:22 What's driving the trend for more alternatives? 07:47 Should you eat less red meat? 08:38 What is in meat alternatives? 10:22 Traditional meats vs meat alternatives 13:41 Are meat alternatives ultra-processed? 14:47 Latest scientific studies 23:56 What were the findings? 29:48 Is the quality of the protein as good as real meat? 34:00 Are meat alternatives healthy? 38:53 Are whole food based meat alternatives healthier? 40:05 What are the practical tips around meat alternatives? 43:21 How do ultra-processed foods come into this? 45:23 What are other ways people can transition away from red meat? 50:33 What are the differences between bad and good quality meat? 📚 Books from our ZOE Scientists: Every Body Should Know This by Dr Federica Amati Food For Life by Prof. Tim Spector Fibre Fuelled by Dr Will Bulsiewicz Studies referenced in today’s episode: Study With Appetizing Plantfood—Meat Eating Alternative Trial (SWAP-MEAT), published in American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. SWAP-MEAT Athlete (study with appetizing plant-food, meat eating alternatives trial) a randomized crossover trial, published in Nutrition Journal. Have feedback or a topic you'd like us to cover? Let us know here. Episode transcripts are available here.

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Is plant-based meat healthy? What the research shows with Prof. Christopher Gardner

This episode hasn't been transcribed yet

Other episodes from ZOE Science & Nutrition

The 4 rules to protect your muscle, bones and brain health when using Ozempic and other weight loss injections | Dr Federica Amati

Most replayed moment: Easy Steps to Reduce Inflammation and Slow Ageing | Professor Janet Lord

What inflammation is really doing to your mind, body and 5 ways to protect your brain | Prof Ed Bullmore

Most replayed moment: How to Balance Sunlight and Suncream | Professor John McGrath

How to unlock the secret power of the mushrooms to heal your gut, cut cholesterol and protect your brain | Prof Robin May

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