Question

Can humans survive without meat?

Answer 1

Human and meat:

1. Primarily, our ancestors were hunters and meat-eaters.
2. They relied heavily on a meat-based diet.
3. Studies have shown that meat consumption was one of the factors that led to bigger brain sizes in humans.
4. A meat-based diet is rich in nutrients that are difficult to get from a plant-based diet.
5. Example- omega 3,6 fatty acids, vitamin B₁₂, high protein content, etc.
6. However, some societies have been known to follow a plant-based diet as their primary diet, e.g., ancient India, some southeast Asian societies, etc.

Veganism and Vegetarianism:

1. People who follow a strictly plant-based diet are known as vegans.
2. They also abstain from poultry products like eggs, milk, butter, cheese, etc.
3. Vegetarians are people who eat a plant-based diet and also consume poultry products.

Positives of veganism:

1. Less water wastage since the livestock industry consumes a lot of water.
2. Vegans also have fewer chances of heart diseases and cancers like colon cancer.
3. A plant-based diet is rich in antioxidants and other bioactive compounds.
4. Following a plant-based diet, various athletes worldwide have improved their performances.

Negatives of Veganism:

1. Iron deficiency is a significant challenge since few plant-based options are rich in iron.
2. Such a diet is not generally rich in proteins, omega-3 and6, vitamin B₁₂, etc.
3. Supplements must be taken to fulfil the daily requirements of various nutrients and minerals.
4. Gut issues can be a challenge for vegans.
5. Therefore, humans are living without meat and can continue to do so. Only special care must be taken to get balanced and complete nutrition.