That is why it is essential to include both heme and non-heme iron in your diet. However, it’s essential to remember that not all types of iron are created equal non-heme iron cannot be as readily absorbed as heme iron.

Iron is widely available in food sources such as meat, eggs, fortified cereals and beans. Iron is an essential mineral that plays a significant role in the production of hemoglobin, which transports oxygen throughout the body. She advises consumers to select products with lower sodium levels as well as more fiber, protein and healthy fats. Samantha Heller, a senior clinical nutritionist at NYU Langone Health in New York City, notes that plant-based meat alternatives may not always be unhealthy but can become unhealthy if overly processed or contain excessive salt. Furthermore, they are packed with saturated fat which could raise cholesterol levels and raise the risk of cardiovascular disease. It also plays a major role in maintaining a healthy heart, so too much sodium may lead to high blood pressure or other health issues.īeyond Meat and Impossible Burger products contain more sodium than their beef counterparts, which could be detrimental for those with high blood pressure or other heart conditions. Sodium is an essential nutrient our bodies require to regulate blood pressure and extracellular fluid. Furthermore, these plant-based proteins often contain additional essential nutrients not found in beef such as B vitamins, zinc, iron, and fats naturally found in animal products. Novel plant-based meat alternatives are increasingly being created to emulate the sensory experience and nutritional profile of meat ( Curtain & Grafenauer, 2019). Studies have demonstrated that a low-carbohydrate diet can raise blood glucose levels and insulin resistance, both of which have been linked with weight gain as well as higher risks for obesity and heart disease. However, there are numerous factors that can influence carbohydrate intake and whether it leads to weight loss or an increased risk of chronic diseases. According to the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, a low-fat, high-complex-carbohydrate diet may aid weight loss and improve overall wellbeing. CarbohydratesĬarbohydrates are one of the most essential macronutrients for our diet, accounting for between 45% and 65% of total caloric intake daily. Health experts agree that such levels should never be expected in processed food products. Recently, CBC News spoke to customers who expressed disappointment over finding that A&W’s Beyond Famous Star burger contained more sodium than their typical beef patties. These could include refined oils, modified cornstarch or dextrose. Some worry about their saturated fat content (see this review), while others argue that swapping out saturated fat for unsaturated fat makes for a healthier choice.įurthermore, many meat alternatives contain extra ingredients that some people find objectionable. Nutritionists are divided on the health benefits of plant-based burgers. Each serving provides more than 20 grams of protein and also serves as an excellent source of iron. For instance, pea isolate – the main protein source in Beyond Burgers – has a PDCAAS score of 0.8 out of 1.Īlthough not as protein-rich as beef, soy protein powder provides a nutritious alternative for those looking to reduce their meat consumption. Protein quality varies between sources, depending on the balance of amino acids and how much of them you absorb. Not only will it determine how many calories you consume, but whether or not the meal will satisfy your body’s hunger. Protein is an integral nutrient to consider when selecting plant-based food options.

Furthermore, many of these ingredients aren’t even naturally found in plant foods. One major concern with these products is they are highly processed foods with lots of fillers and additives. Plant-based burgers such as Beyond meat and Impossible meat have become more widely available in restaurants than ever before, garnering much attention for their health benefits – though not all plant-based foods are created equal. What Are the Ingredients in Beyond Meat?.

Beyond meat ingredients nutrition facts