Are Plant-Based Foods Actually Healthy?

Disadvantages of a Plant-Based Diet

Everyone’s talking about going plant-based, but here’s what no one’s telling you. Just because it’s plant-based doesn’t mean it’s healthy. Chances are, your plant-based burger, sausage, or chicken tender has more than 15 ingredients you can’t pronounce. Even plant-based foods can be ultra-processed; they are usually high in sodium and added sugars and have barely any real nutrition. It’s not just about junk food anymore. Studies have shown that ultra-processed foods are linked to obesity, heart disease, and even cancer.

The bottom line is simple. YES, plant foods that are fresh and not heavily processed can help protect your heart. But plant foods that are highly processed—like chips or packaged snacks—can actually raise your risk of heart disease. “Don’t get me wrong, eating more plants is great. The goal should be real plant foods. Dietary guidelines promoting diets based on plant-sourced foods should emphasize not only the reduction of meat, red meat, or animal-sourced foods but also the need to avoid all ultra-processed foods. So next time you go grocery shopping. Check out this million-dollar tip. Shop the outer aisles. Real food has fewer labels and simple ingredients you can say and recognize.

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