The University of Surrey has identified a 42% higher risk of depression among vegetarians consuming processed plant-based meat alternatives. Researchers emphasize the need for further studies while acknowledging some health benefits of these alternatives.
A groundbreaking study from the University of Surrey has raised concerns about the mental health impacts of ultra-processed plant-based meat alternatives (PBMAs) for vegetarians. Published in the journal Food Frontiers, the research showed that vegetarians consuming PBMAs faced a 42% increased risk of depression compared to their counterparts who avoided these meat substitutes.
Led by Hana Navratilova, the study utilized data from the UK Biobank to analyze various health metrics of vegetarians. It found no significant differences in the intake of sodium, free sugar, total sugar or saturated fatty acids between PBMA consumers and non-consumers.
However, vegetarians who consumed PBMAs exhibited higher blood pressure and elevated C-reactive protein (CRP) levels, a marker of inflammation, as well as lower levels of apolipoprotein A, linked to HDL or “good” cholesterol.
On a positive note, PBMA consumption was associated with a 40% reduced risk of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
“The overall findings are reassuring, suggesting that plant-based meat alternatives may be a safe option when they are part of an overall balanced diet. However, the potential link between these types of food, inflammation and depression warrants further investigation,” senior author Nophar Geifman, a professor of health and biomedical informatics, said in a news release.
Despite its revelations, the study acknowledged some limitations, primarily that the data was largely drawn from a white population in the UK and dietary information was only collected at the start of the research, without accounting for possible changes over time. This calls for more comprehensive studies in the future, involving diverse populations and longitudinal data.
Co-author Anthony Whetton, a professor of translational biosystems, highlighted the societal and environmental benefits of PBMAs, yet emphasized the necessity for further research.
“Ultra-processed plant-based meat alternatives can be a useful way for people to transition to a vegetarian diet effectively, and that helps with sustainable agricultural practices,” he said in the news release. “Further research, including longitudinal studies and trials with more diverse populations, is necessary to confirm these findings and the relationship between vegetarian foods and mood.”
This research adds to the growing discourse on the health impacts of ultra-processed foods. While PBMAs offer an alternative route for those looking to adopt a vegetarian diet, the potential mental health implications cannot be overlooked.