Don't get faked out by fake meats
Vegetarian Meat was a much-praised rock band out of Ohio in the 1990s. And since the 2010s, some folks have been singing the praises of vegetarian meat that's showing up on menus and in grocery stores. But are these current forms of ultra-processed meat substitutes out of tune with healthy nutrition? Yes indeed.
A new study in Food Frontiers reveals that vegetarians who eat these plant-based meat alternatives are 42% more likely to contend with depression than vegetarians who refrain from eating the fake stuff. What's the link? It appears highly processed fake meats increase your body's level of inflammatory C-reactive protein (CRP) and that can cause negative changes in your brain's mood-altering neurotransmitters. That boost in CRP can also increase heart woes, which may contribute to depression, both emotionally and physically.
But it's not all bad news about veggie "meats." The researchers found that vegetarians who eat them had a 40% reduced risk of irritable bowel syndrome. However, we suggest, whether you're a vegetarian or not, you can gain that same benefit (and many more) by opting for unprocessed, fruits, vegetables and whole grains -- and for meat-eaters, by ditching red and processed red meats.
We know, that adopting a healthier diet is an often difficult process of giving up highly processed foods. So, grab a fake burger if you're craving a beef burger -- but don't make it a habit. And explore the fabulous flavors and amazing health benefits of healthy foods in Dr. Mike's "What to Eat When Cookbook." You'll live longer, younger and happier!
Dr. Mike Roizen is the founder of www.longevityplaybook.com, and Dr. Mehmet Oz is global advisor to www.iHerb.com, the world's leading online health store. Roizen and Oz are chief wellness officer emeritus at Cleveland Clinic and professor emeritus at Columbia University, respectively. Together they have written 11 New York Times bestsellers (four No. 1's).
(c)2025 Michael Roizen, M.D.
Distributed by King Features Syndicate, Inc.
(c) 2025 Michael Roizen, M.D. Distributed by King Features Syndicate, Inc.
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