Ditch 'fake meat', embrace Indian veg food, says JD Vance: Why his advice makes sense

JD Vance , US vice presidential candidate was all praises for Indian vegetarian cuisine during his new podcast with Joe Rogan , the wellness expert who often talks about harms of processed meats in his shows.

Criticising fake meat and calling them 'highly processed garbage', Rogan said it creeps him out. He raved about Indian food that has a huge variety for vegetarians. Vance couldn't agree more, sharing how his wife makes really delicious Indian food and recommended "paneer and rice and delicious chickpeas" to all vegetarians, while steering clear of the "disgusting fake meat."

Is processed plant meat good for health? Plant-based eating has piqued the interest of many due to environmental as well as health concerns. Around 3%-6% of Americans are vegan and vegetarian respectively, according to a study published in Vegan Journal. Non-vegetarians who want to do their bit for the planet or animal welfare may find the idea of switching to processed plant meat a win-win as 'fake meats' nearly taste like regular meat.

While they may seem like a healthy option, considering they are plant-based and usually derived from soybeans, peas or wheat, these ingredients go through rigorous processing which means the nutrients get lost and while they may be high in protein, but lack of fibre, presence of preservatives, artificial coloring, and seasonings may be doing more harm than good. So, when Rogan tags them 'highly processed garbage', this is what he's trying to say.

Plant-based meats may still have less saturated fat than animal meat, but slightly more fibre than animal-based meats even if the protein content would not match. However, when compared with typical vegetarian food served in Indian households, plant-based meats lack a significant amount of polyphenols, monounsaturated fats, vitamins, fibre, and minerals.

Health benefits of Indian vegetarian food A typical Indian meal comprises fresh vegetables, lentils, probiotics like raita (curd), salad, flattened bread made of whole wheat flour, and rice. The meal is prepared from scratch which leaves little scope for processed foods. Vegetables are full of antioxidants, iron, Vitamin A, C, K, folic acids, calcium and a range of other micronutrients. Lentils are a storehouse of protein apart from folate, iron and vitamin B1, which support heart health and prevent chronic diseases.

Plant-based meat alternatives have too much sodium, hidden sugar, artificial colouring, additives and preservatives, while a typical Indian home-cooked vegetarian meal is low in sodium and high in fibre, protein and a range of other nutrients.

Indians also use a range of spices in their meals following the rules of Ayurveda, a traditional medicinal practice. The use of spices like turmeric, cumin, carom seeds, cardamom, coriander, cinnamon, bay leaf, fenugreek, mustard seeds and others not only add to the flavor but also help enhance immunity and keep many illnesses at bay.

Another element of an Indian thali is raita which is made with curd that is known to be an effective probiotic. Adding probiotics to your meal can prevent indigestion and bloating. It also has calcium and phosphorus.

(Images courtesy: AP images)
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