Unexpected Benefits.. How do plant-based meat alternatives affect the body?

A new study conducted in Canada revealed that plant-based meat alternatives, even if they are ultra-processed foods, are still better for human health than eating traditional meat.

According to the study conducted by a medical team from the University of British Columbia in Vancouver, Canada, the risks of heart disease, cholesterol and obesity are reduced when eating plant-based meat alternatives.

During the study published in the scientific journal "Canadian Journal of Cardiology", it was found that people who eat meat alternatives have a 13% lower risk of developing cholesterol, with a 9% decrease in low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and a 53% decrease in triglycerides, in addition to an 11% increase in high-density lipoprotein known as "good cholesterol".

Professor Ehud Orr, head of the study team from the Faculty of Medicine at the University of British Columbia, says that "plant-based meat is a healthy alternative associated with a lower risk of cardiovascular disease."

He added in media statements reported by the website "Health Day", which specializes in medical research, that meat alternatives also contain many valuable nutrients and minerals, such as sodium, for example.

However, Orr acknowledges that many meat alternatives are considered ultra-processed foods that contain lower levels of fiber that are beneficial to the body, and large amounts of salt, sugar and additives.