There are no nutrients in animal-based foods that are not better obtained by plant-based foods.

Here are a couple facts as discussed in the Certificate of Plant Based Nutrition. Nutritional Fundamentals. by Ronald Lemay

Science supports the premise that there are no nutrients in animal-based foods that are not better obtained by plant-based foods.

Here are some examples, additional to those below, to support this premise:

• Animal-based foods do not have antioxidants; plants have a natural and rich supply of antioxidants.

• Cholesterol is only found in animal-based foods; we do not need to consume it because we produce it.

• Fiber is only available in plant-based foods; it is not found in animal-based foods. Fiber as a part of our diet is necessary for an optimal digestive process.

• Saturated fats are almost exclusively found in animal-based foods. The greater the saturation, the greater chance they are solid in room temperature. Fats solid at room temperature cause health issues.

• Animal-based foods are low in water due to the cooking process that is generally mandatory in their preparation. Plant-based diets have the option of being eaten raw – fruits and vegetable (salads).

• Animal-based protein is associated with tumor growth promotion; plant-based protein is not associated with tumor growth promotion according to The China Study.

• There are no carbohydrates in most animal-based foods: chicken, turkey, beef, tuna, and shrimp have no carbohydrates; this forces the body to convert protein and fat to carbohydrates which is an unnecessary task for the body. Plant-based diets are predominant in carbohydrates: calorie per calorie, as per the USDA database, apples are 95% carbohydrates, bananas are 93% carbohydrates, and Navel oranges are 91% carbohydrates – simple carbohydrates.

Literally speaking, a plant-based diet does not seem to differ from ‘being vegan’ because a vegan is a person who does not eat or use animal products, and a plant-based diet is described as: of a product from plants (e.g., vegetables, fruits, legumes), as plant-based food) although a plant “based” diet may include small amount of animal products but is largely based in plant foods.

Certification in Plant Based Nutrition.

Other insights on plant based diets vs animal based diet.

> Animal and Plant based foods – The Nutritional Differences

> A plant based, “nutrient rich”, whole foods diet, vs a vegan diet (which may not be based on whole foods).