Fake meat can cause real health risks — experts call for caution amid plant-based craze

Good for the environment — but what about your body?

Trendy plant-based meats could be triggering health issues less frequently seen in humans who prefer to chow down on the real thing, a new study warns.

Research published in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition compared the impacts of protein alternatives, scientifically known as plant-based meat analogues, or PBMAs, to actual meat dishes — and the experts didn’t necessarily like what they found.

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During an eight-week period of analysis, it turned out that actual beef provided more protein than its imposter — while typically being higher in sodium, a problem for those struggling with hypertension.

Also, PBMAs contained high levels of potassium and calcium, possibly triggering issues with blood sugar control in ways not observed among meat eaters.

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“This suggests that assumptions of health benefits from consuming [plant-based meats] may not be directly extrapolated to those consuming a [plant-based diet],” the researchers said.

Previous research found that plant-based diets overall have been found to show little health benefits to counterpart foods.

In another study, veganism was found to launch the female libido up to 380% .

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The medical news comes as well-known brand Beyond Meat experiences tanking sales. The company has been making attempts to cut fat from its products by 60% recently.

And while the jury may still be out, that hasn’t stopped the likes of Bill Gates from giving meat alternatives a strong vote of confidence .

“I think eventually these products will be very good, even though their share is small today,” Gates told Redditors in a recent online discussion.

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