Plant-Based vs. Meat Diets: What’s Better for Men?

For decades, the connection between meat and masculinity has been undeniable. One study looking into men’s diet preferences found that vegetarians were looked at as more virtuous and less masculine than meat-eating males. However, the study is from 2011. We’re currently living in a world where documentaries like The Game Changers exist, and elite athletes are taking their bodies to the extremes following a plant-based diet.

So, which one is better? Let’s break these diets down to find the answer to this question many men are asking themselves.

Looking into Plant-Based Diets

The thing with plant-based diets is that they take on many forms and styles. Some diets call for the consumption of all healthy plant-based foods, reducing the intake of animal products. Other styles say plant-based diets should emphasize the consumption of only healthy plant foods, reducing consumption of unhealthy plant foods and animal foods. Then, you have people that consider a plant-based diet that includes unhealthy plant foods such as fruit juices or refined grains.

There’s one study saying the second style, a healthy plant-based diet that limits animal products, should be the right approach.

Pros

Whether you choose a vegetarian, vegan, or pescatarian diet, there are many benefits associated with them. Some of the advantages plant-based dieters can claim include:

• Lowers rates of cardiovascular disease
• Reduces the risk of developing prostate cancer
• Help fight erectile dysfunction

Cons

Of course, no diet is perfect. But overall, every diet has its disadvantages. When it comes to plant-based diets, the issues include:

• Difficulty getting the right amount of protein
• Some studies believe plant-based diets can increase the risk of strokes
• Increases the risk of suffering vitamin and mineral deficiency

The Case for Meat Diets

Now, let’s explore the meat diet. Many people follow the carnivore diet, despite the controversial claims against it. Whether true or not, the cultural connection and the social pressures for a man to eat meat can’t be ignored. A meat diet is any meal plan that includes animal products in it, including processed or refined meats, such as cold cuts and sausages.

Pros

Overall, eating meat is not a terrible thing, as it does have some benefits. Of course, these benefits are valid if meat consumption is moderate. Here are some of the benefits of eating meat:

• Reduces appetite and increase metabolism
• Increases the retention of muscle mass
• Reduces the risk of bone fractures
• Promotes better iron absorption

Cons

However, eating meat also comes with its drawbacks. Red meat has long been considered a possible carcinogenic. Here are some of the disadvantages of eating a meat diet:

• Increases the risk of colorectal, pancreatic, breast, and prostate cancers
• Higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes
• Increases the chances of suffering a stroke

Which One Is Better for Men?

There’s no right or wrong answer. Both diets have their pros and cons, and it ultimately boils down to your health. Unfortunately, there isn’t a one-size-fits-all diet approach that helps everyone equally. When it comes to choosing the right diet for you, discuss your options with your doctor. Things like age, family history, genetics, and more play a role in the type of diet that best suits your body.