Diets that rely heavily on animal products, especially red and processed meats, are linked to a higher risk of heart disease, certain cancers, type two diabetes, and chronic inflammation. While, diets centered around whole plant based foods are associated with improved cardiovascular health, better digestion, reduced inflammation, and long term protection against many chronic illnesses.

Before embracing the latest meat heavy trend, it is important to examine the full picture.

Beef Tallow: Superfood or Saturated Fat Trap?

Beef tallow is being promoted as a clean fat and even used as skincare. But is beef tallow healthy?

According to the American Heart Association, beef tallow is high in saturated fat, which raises LDL cholesterol and increases the risk of heart disease and stroke.

Healthier options include unsaturated plant based fats like:

• Olive oil
• Avocados
• Nuts and seeds

These fats are linked to reduced inflammation, improved heart health, and better metabolic function

Carnivore Diet Risks: What Happens When You Cut Out Plants?

The carnivore diet excludes all plant based foods and is marketed as a cure all for gut health, autoimmune disorders, and even mental clarity. Nutrition experts warn that eliminating fiber and phytonutrients from your diet can cause:

• Gut microbiome imbalance
• Constipation
• Nutrient deficiencies
• Increased risk of colon cancer and heart disease

Diets lacking in fiber negatively affect gut health and increase inflammation. The National Institutes of Health also emphasize that fiber is essential for blood sugar regulation, digestion, and immune health.

Does a Meat Based Diet Give You More Energy and Strength?

One common claim is that meat based diets fuel strength, energy, and muscle growth better than plant based options. But studies suggest otherwise.

While meat provides protein, plant based diets offer complete nutrition with added benefits:

• Stable energy from complex carbohydrates
• Reduced inflammation from antioxidants
• Faster recovery after workouts
• Gut health support from dietary fiber

Research in the Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition found that plant based athletes perform just as well or better than those on meat heavy diets.

Is Eating Meat the Most Natural Diet for Humans?

Supporters of high meat diets often argue that it's the natural human diet based on early human eating patterns. But anthropological evidence suggests our ancestors consumed mostly plants and hunted when necessary. Early humans had diverse diets rich in fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, and grains, not just meat. Today’s meat is very different from wild game. Most modern meat comes from factory farms, where animals are fed unnatural diets and treated with antibiotics and hormones. The World Health Organization has even classified processed meats as a Group 1 carcinogen, linking them to increased colorectal cancer risk.

Plant Based Diet Benefits: What Happens When You Reduce Meat?

While meat based diets may offer short term weight loss, the long term health benefits of a plant based diet are well documented. Studies show that plant based nutrition can:

• Lower blood pressure and cholesterol
• Improve insulin sensitivity
• Support gut health
• Reduce the risk of heart disease, diabetes, and some cancers

A well planned vegan or vegetarian diet provides all essential nutrients, protein included, without the downsides of saturated fat and cholesterol. The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics affirms that plant based diets are suitable for all life stages.

Try a Plant Based Diet for 30 Days

You don’t have to give up meat forever. Trying a plant based diet for 30 days can help you experience the difference firsthand. Many people report:

• More energy
• Better digestion
• Clearer skin
• Reduced joint pain
• Better sleep
• Stronger workouts

Even small changes like reducing red meat or switching to plant based protein a few times per week can make a big impact.

Don’t Follow Trends Without the Facts

Meat based diets may be popular online, but evidence shows they can increase your risk of chronic illness when followed long term. Meanwhile, plant based diets are backed by decades of peer reviewed research showing improved health, longevity, and sustainability.

If you're curious, explore plant based alternatives for yourself. You might be surprised by what you discover about your health, your energy, and your future.