Is Plant-Based “Meat” Unhealthy? Bodybuilding Legend Arnold Schwarzenegger Clears All Confusion

While vegans abstain from all animal products, it severely limits the food options they can go for. Plant-based meat aims to solve that by providing vegans with a guilt-free alternative to meat. Often, the main USP of plant-based meat is that it is advertised to be healthier. In his latest newsletter, Arnold Schwarzenegger took a deep dive to verify this claim.

Arnold Schwarzenegger’s fitness newsletter, Arnold’s Pump Club, is dedicated to cutting the noise in fitness. Thanks to the internet making things viral, it’s easy for people to get over-saturated with information on a particular topic. Especially, if that topic is as viral as plant-based meat. As always, Arnie highlighted scientific studies to reveal unembellished facts.

Arnold Schwarzenegger talks about link between plant-based meat and cardiovascular health

The 76-year-old revealed that people looking for red meat or processed meat alternatives might find plant-based meat an exciting prospect. Schwarzenegger highlighted “new research“ suggesting a benefit of plant-based meat. “Mycoprotein — a form of meatless protein made from fermented fungus — could improve cardiovascular health,” wrote Arnie.

The study found mycoprotein consumption resulted in “reduced waist circumference, total cholesterol, and LDL-C cholesterol.” However, things aren’t as “black-and-white,” as they seem. Processed meat is often frowned upon by people. However, Schwarzenegger explained that plant-based meat “can also be highly processed.”

Besides being processed, plant-based meat might also be “highly caloric,” hindering those looking to lose weight. The bodybuilding legend also highlighted that while containing mycoprotein, it lacks “red meat’s micronutrient (vitamins and mineral).” The seven-time Mr. Olympia said many people believe switching to plant-based food means “fewer calories and saturated fats.” 

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However, the viral hit, Impossible Burger, is every bit as decadent as a traditional cheeseburger. Hence, Schwarzenegger advises his readers to choose wisely, as both animal and plant-based nutrition have their advantages and disadvantages. Arnie himself chose neither extreme.

The Terminator’s unique diet

76-year-old Arnold Schwarzenegger was born with a defective heart valve. Through the decades the former Junior Mr. Europe has undergone multiple heart surgeries. After these surgeries, Arnie has significantly altered his diet. However, the Terminator franchise star maintains an omnivorous diet. Arnold Schwarzenegger eats meat, although his diet is mostly plant-based (80%).

Whether it’s red meat, chicken, or eggs, the former chairman of the President’s Fitness Council eats animal products. The former champion bodybuilder understands the requirement of a balanced diet. Hence, instead of shunning meat or vegetables, the 76-year-old focuses on the nutrition plan that benefits him.

While writing on plant-based meat, Arnold Schwarzenegger aimed to educate people that the right diet, is one that benefits each unique individual and therefore should based on personal requirements.

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