Meat alternatives can make you depressed

Vegetarians who crave meat should steer clear of plant-based alternatives.

Plant-based meat alternatives (PBMAs) are ultra-processed foods that could cause a host of health problems, and especially depression.

Researchers from the University of Surrey reckon PBMAs increase the risk of depression by 42 percent, and vegetarians who regularly eat the meals also have higher blood pressure and CRP (C-reactive protein) markers, a sign of inflammation.

They’re not all bad.  They do at least reduce the risk of IBS (irritable bowel disease) by 40 percent, the researchers found when they analysed data from the UK Biobank survey.

The takeaway message is to eat PBMAs sparingly and as part of a more balanced diet.  They can also help people move from a carnivore to a vegetarian diet.

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