of casein as we do today. From bone-weakening properties to harnassingproteins, cow
products are not something we should continue to advertise.
To add to the misconceptions, beef has become the epitome of protein in a standard
diet. Therefore, some may argue that plant-based diets lack in protein. However, all protein is created from plants. Due to their ability to transform nitrogen in the air into protein, plants are the only organism capable of producing it. In other words, animal “protein” is recycled plant protein. As long as someone incorporates adequate servings of foods such as brown rice and broccoli into their diet, they will get plenty of protein to keep them functioning. For example, 2,000 calories of brown rice and broccoli can amount to 80 grams of protein per day as well as provide amino acids, vitamins, and minerals. Specifically, grains, beans, and vegetables are loaded with protein. Additionally, beans and legumes can reduce blood sugar, improve cholesterol levels, and maintain one’s gut health. Grains such as rice aid digestion and lower blood pressure as well. The qualities attained from plants are limitless, lacking in simply one vitamin. Microbes that blanket the earth produce this unique vitamin, known as Vitamin B12. Hence, it is recommended to find a supplement that includes the needed daily dosage. Outside of Vitamin B12, which neither yield, there is nothing from meat that cannot otherwise be obtained by plants.
There is a high chance that we were constructed with the blueprint of an herbivore. We
have eaten meat products for what seems like forever, but we were once gatherers who
harvested berries, nuts, and plants for survival. From our teeth to our intestines to the
countless negative effects of eating meat on the human body, it is evident we had different
origins. As of modern day, our closest relative is the chimp who consume 97% plants and
3% insects. In comparison to omnivores such as bears, the teeth of primates are flat for
grinding plants and that of a bear are sharp and serrated for tearing meat. In addition,
frugivores, another term for herbivores, have jaws that can move in a variety of functions.
Carnivores, on the other hand, acquire stiff, hinge-like jaws. When evaluating their stomach linings, those of carnivores are especially acidic for breaking down meat, and the latter much less so. Along with the digestive system, frugivore intestines can reach 9 times their body
The most common myth of a vegan diet is the lack of protein, but studies have proven otherwise. In fact, most Americans ingest twice as much protein and half as much fiber than the recommended amount. Media outlets have put the spotlight on protein, making people choose protein-rich products over well-balanced ones. While protein is fundamental to good health, fiber is equally as important. Eating plants helps people achieve balance effortlessly, whereas meat-eaters must make a conscious effort to get in their daily fiber dosage. Because of this misconception regarding protein, we have overestimated the necessary amounts. Furthermore, human milk has the lowest protein content of all species on earth. If it has been designed to keep human babies healthy, then why is there such a push on high-protein products? Is it possible that we have been working towards the wrong goal?