New research brings good news for meat lovers.

While many people enjoy eating meat, some follow a vegetarian diet, eliminating all animal products, including meat, dairy, and eggs.

For years, researchers have found that following a plant-based diet can help reduce heart disease, diabetes, and cancer, as well as help control weight; in fact, vegetarianism can improve health in as little as four weeks. However, meat-eaters believe that a long-term vegetarian diet can lead to "nutrient deficiencies."

Eating meat helps provide all the essential nutrients.

A new study, recently published in the scientific journal Plos One, has brought good news for meat lovers, according to the New York Post.

Eating meat helps provide all the essential nutrients.

Photo: AI

Scientists at Massey University (New Zealand) analyzed the diets of nearly 240 people aged 30 to 75, including long-term vegetarians (including vegans and dairy-based vegetarians) and meat-eaters, who were followed for six years.

The results showed that the vegetarian group consumed more vegetables, fruits, beans, and nuts than meat-eaters, and also avoided sugary drinks and junk food more.

They also consume more fiber, folate, magnesium, vitamin E, iron, and omega-6 fatty acids than meat eaters. About three-quarters of vegetarians also meet the recommended daily protein intake.

However, it's noteworthy that the results are good news for meat-eaters, as meat provides essential nutrients. Meanwhile, vegetarians were found to be lacking in some essential nutrients, a deficiency that could be dangerous to their health, according to the New York Post .

Half of vegetarians are deficient in two essential amino acids: lysine and leucine – both crucial for good health.

Additionally, vegetarians also have lower levels of vitamin B12, iodine, niacin, riboflavin, and omega-3 fatty acids compared to meat eaters.

Vegetarians often lack certain essential nutrients.

Photo: AI

How important are leucine and lysine?

Leucine is key to the production of proteins and growth hormone, playing a vital role in muscle growth and repair, wound healing, and blood sugar regulation.

Lysine, on the other hand, is crucial for hormone production, energy, calcium, and immune function.

Researchers warn that long-term lysine and leucine deficiencies can disrupt protein balance, hinder muscle maintenance, and affect other vital functions. These risks may be even more serious in older adults who follow a strict vegetarian diet.

The study authors concluded that vegetarian diets, while offering more beneficial nutrients and whole foods than meat-based diets, can lead to nutritional deficiencies if not properly planned. They advised vegetarians not only to consume sufficient protein, but also to eat a balanced and varied diet of plant-based foods to provide all the necessary amino acids.

Scientists are calling for more research into how vegans can increase their leucine and lysine levels.

Source: https://thanhnien.vn/nghien-cuu-moi-mang-tin-vui-cho-nguoi-thich-an-thit-185250425223223595.htm