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Vegan fast food
Vegan fast food alternatives may often be worse for your health than the meat equivalent. It is good that people start to think about plant-based foods, but the danger lies in thinking that it is good for you when it can be equally or more unhealthy.
For instance, tofu contains omega 3 called Alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), but our bodies are not able to do anything particularly useful with ALA. The Omega 3 that is highly beneficial to us is called DHA and EPA and are found in high quantities in fatty fish oils.
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Plant-based protein menus
Plant-based protein sources are not the same as animal protein sources. Proteins are made up of amino acids which are the building blocks of every cell and hormone in our body. Meat protein contains all nine essential amino acids, whereas plant-based protein usually lacks at least one of the nine essential amino acids our body needs.
Unripe jackfruit makes a convincing choice for pulled pork alternatives, curries and burgers. But it is almost valueless if you needed protein since jackfruit consists of carbohydrates. Vegan burgers are made up of beans, but this is not a complete protein source.
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Iron content
One study found that 25% of vegans (mainly women) had very low blood iron levels, compared to 0% of omnivores.
Plants like whole grains, legumes and spinach are high in iron but is not always the best type. Animal sources contain haem iron. Non-haem iron, found in plants, is not as well absorbed by the body.
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Vegan considerations
- If you go long-term vegan, it is essential to pair food. For instance, vitamin C helps your body to absorb non-haem iron sources.
- Vegan burgers contain more salt, sugar, and carbohydrates than meat equivalents. Vegan burgers also contain less protein.
- Coconut oil, a general go-to for vegans, is higher in saturated fats than animal fats. Saturated fats increase LDL cholesterol, which is responsible for plaque build-up in arteries.
- Dairy products are good sources of B12. Plant sources of B12 are less easily taken up by the body.
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The spillover effect
If someone can find vegan food in pubs, restaurants, and fast food outlets, then the spillover to a vegan lifestyle will be easier.
However, there is a risk that nutrient deficiencies might develop over time that will not be immediately apparent, like tiredness with low B12 levels, infertility with low iron or osteoporosis from a calcium deficiency.
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