During an eight-week study, plant-based meats, also known as protein alternatives, were found to have potential health risks, according to a new study published in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. The study compared the impacts of plant-based meat analogues (PBMAs) to actual meat dishes and found that the imposter meats may not be as beneficial for the body as previously believed.

One of the key findings of the study was that while plant-based meats contain less protein than actual beef, they tend to have higher levels of sodium, which can be problematic for individuals with hypertension.

Furthermore, the study also discovered that PBMAs contain high levels of potassium and calcium, which could potentially lead to issues with blood sugar control in plant-based dieters.

The study concludes that the assumed health benefits of consuming plant-based meats may not be directly applicable to individuals following a plant-based diet.

It is important to note that previous research has also shown that plant-based diets in general may not offer significant health benefits compared to other food options.

The medical news comes at a time when Beyond Meat, a well-known plant-based meat brand, is experiencing a decline in sales. The company has recently made efforts to reduce fat content in its products by 60% in an attempt to boost sales.

Despite these findings, advocates for meat alternatives, including Bill Gates, remain hopeful for the future of plant-based products. Gates believes that although the market share for these products is currently small, they have the potential to become a healthier alternative to traditional meats.

It is essential for consumers to be cautious of assuming that plant-based meats are always a healthier option. Further research and understanding of the potential health risks are necessary before making dietary choices.