Plant-based Meat Alternatives and Cardiometabolic Health: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.

This article summarizes findings from several systematic reviews and meta-analyses investigating the impact of plant-based meat alternatives (PBMAs) on cardiometabolic health.

Key Findings Across Studies

Multiple studies consistently demonstrate that substituting PBMAs for meat consumption is associated with positive changes in cardiometabolic parameters. These benefits are observed across various studies, although the specific outcomes and magnitude of effects vary.

• Reduced LDL-c and Total Cholesterol: Several studies reported significant reductions in low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-c) and total cholesterol (TC) when PBMAs replaced meat in the diet. One study showed a 12% reduction in LDL-c and a 6% reduction in TC over an 8-week period.
• Weight Loss: A reduction in body weight was also observed in some studies, with one reporting a 1% decrease in body weight after substituting PBMAs for meat.
• No Significant Changes in Other Parameters: While positive effects on LDL-c, TC, and body weight were noted, no significant changes were consistently observed in high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-c), triglycerides, blood pressure, or fasting glucose levels across all studies.
• Mycoprotein-based Alternatives: Sensitivity analyses focusing on mycoprotein-based PBMAs showed particularly strong reductions in LDL-c and TC.
• Long-term Studies Needed: While the short-term benefits are promising, the reviews emphasize the need for long-term studies to fully assess the cardiometabolic effects of PBMAs.

Study Details and Methodology

The research included multiple systematic reviews and meta-analyses, employing rigorous methodologies:

• Database Searches: Comprehensive searches across multiple databases (PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, etc.) were conducted to identify relevant randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and prospective cohort studies.
• Inclusion Criteria: Studies were included based on specific criteria, focusing on adult participants without pre-existing cardiovascular diseases and assessing the effects of replacing meat with PBMAs on various cardiometabolic parameters.
• Meta-analysis Techniques: Meta-analyses were performed using random-effects models to estimate pooled mean differences and hazard ratios, along with confidence intervals, to assess the statistical significance and consistency of findings.
• Risk of Bias Assessment: The risk of bias in the included studies was assessed using appropriate tools (e.g., ROBINS-I), and the certainty of evidence was evaluated using the GRADE approach.

Study Limitations

While the findings are encouraging, several limitations should be considered:

• Short-term Studies: Many studies had relatively short follow-up periods (e.g., 8 weeks), limiting the ability to draw conclusions about long-term effects.
• Observational Studies: The reliance on observational studies introduces the possibility of residual confounding, despite adjustments for various lifestyle factors.
• Heterogeneity: Some heterogeneity existed across studies, potentially due to differences in PBMA types, study populations, and methodologies.
• Limited Data on Specific PBMA Types: More research is needed to assess the effects of specific types of PBMAs.

Conclusion

The available evidence suggests that replacing meat with PBMAs may offer short-term benefits for certain cardiometabolic parameters, particularly LDL-c and TC, and may contribute to weight loss. However, more high-quality, long-term studies are needed to confirm these findings and to fully understand the long-term impact of PBMAs on cardiometabolic health. The studies highlight the importance of considering the type of PBMA and the need for further research, especially on newer meat and dairy replacement products.