Why swapping meat for beans might be better for you and the planet
Plant-based protein: A multi-nutritional sustainable alternative to animal foods and their structure, functions, and relationship: A review.
Not medical advice. For informational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare professional. Terms
Surprising Findings
Pea protein has 8.7g of arginine per 100g—higher than many animal proteins—and 80% digestibility.
Most assume animal proteins are more digestible and nutrient-dense, but pea protein rivals them in both areas.
Practical Takeaways
Replace one daily serving of red meat with lentils, tofu, or pea-based protein to potentially lower LDL cholesterol and diabetes risk.
Not medical advice. For informational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare professional. Terms
Surprising Findings
Pea protein has 8.7g of arginine per 100g—higher than many animal proteins—and 80% digestibility.
Most assume animal proteins are more digestible and nutrient-dense, but pea protein rivals them in both areas.
Practical Takeaways
Replace one daily serving of red meat with lentils, tofu, or pea-based protein to potentially lower LDL cholesterol and diabetes risk.
Publication
Journal
International journal of biological macromolecules
Year
2025
Authors
Shreya P Sarathy, Haripriya Ravikumar, Pandurangan Nanjan, Nithya Alagesan, B. L. Chua
Related Content
Claims (6)
If you swap out meat and white bread for beans, lentils, and whole grains, your body may have less swelling and better cholesterol, which could mean fewer heart problems.
Growing plants for protein creates way less pollution and uses far less water than raising cows for meat.
Soy is one of the few plant foods that has all the amino acids your body needs, and it’s packed with protein—almost as much as meat.
Foods like beans, lentils, nuts, and whole grains have all the important building blocks your body needs from protein, just like meat and dairy — so they can work just as well for your health.
Pea protein is easy for your body to break down and has a lot of arginine, an amino acid that helps with blood flow and muscle recovery.