Today, we’re tackling a question that pops up often, especially when discussing plant-based diets: “Isn’t eating meat natural?” It’s a valid query, given our history and the cultural dietary habits around the world. But, when we dive into the science and anthropology of it, the answer may shock you.

What Does ‘Natural’ Even Mean?

First off, let’s talk about what we mean by “natural.” If we’re speaking historically, humans have indeed eaten meat for thousands of years. But just how much meat and how often? Stating that a practice is ‘natural’ implies that it is a frequent habit but that isn’t historically correct. And by natural, do we mean that we evolved to be meat-eaters? The answer is no. It’s cultural, and not natural for us to do so.

lion eating meat

Our Ancestors and Diet

Contrary to the popular image of our ancestors as voracious meat-eaters, the bulk of ancient diets in many regions was plant-based. This is backed by considerable anthropological research showing that early humans were predominantly gatherers and not hunters. Do you know how hard it is to catch a fast-running animal? Meat was a rarity or a survival option rather than a daily food source. For example, stable isotopic analysis used by archeologists to measure food in human bones and teeth, often shows significant amounts of plant matter in the diet of our ancestors. Here is a fun fact – Gladiators were called barley-men because they were vegan and ate chia seeds to prepare for battle!

Dr. Michael Greger of NutritionFacts.org points out that our digestive systems resemble those of herbivores more than carnivores. Humans have long intestines, perfect for the slow digestion of fiber-rich foods like plants, not the short bowels of carnivores designed for quick digestion of meat whereas meat takes too long to process through our extensive digestion system and often becomes toxic.

Behaviorally, we are not natural meat-eaters. It’s not the natural order for humans. If there was a daily animal slaughter in a local park, we would not go to watch. If a deer dropped dead in our backyard, we would not set upon it and eat it as a lion would. We are not carnivores or predators that is not our lifestyle. We are starchivores who have trained ourselves to be necrovores, that is someone who eats dead flesh.

runner on the beach

Health Implications

From a health perspective, numerous modern studies suggest that any meat consumption is linked to increased risks of heart disease, certain cancers and diabetes. The World Health Organization classifies processed meats like hot dogs, bacon and deli meats as a Group 1 carcinogen (like tobacco) and red meat as a Group 2A carcinogen, indicating that they probably cause cancer.

“Processed meat refers to meat that has been transformed through salting, curing, fermentation, smoking, or other processes to enhance flavor or improve preservation. Most processed meats contain pork or beef, but processed meats may also contain other red meats, poultry, offal, or meat by-products such as blood.

Examples of processed meat include hot dogs (frankfurters), ham, sausages, corned beef, and biltong or beef jerky as well as canned meat and meat-based preparations and sauces”. World Health Organization

A plant-based diet, on the other hand, has been consistently linked to lower rates of these diseases. Plants offer all the protein, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals that we need without the harmful effects associated with meat consumption.

Environmental Considerations

It’s also worth considering the environmental impact of meat production. Modern meat production from cows, pigs, chickens and lambs takes up an unprecedented 80% of our farmland, and is the primary cause of deforestation, water scarcity, and climate change due to reduced absorption of greenhouse gas emissions. Reducing meat consumption and repurposing the land for trees is the way to a sustainable planet- an argument many find compelling given the current climate crisis.

Ethical Considerations

There’s also an ethical dimension to consider. With the advent of factory farming, animals are often raised in poor conditions, and the process of slaughtering is far from what could be considered natural. As awareness of these conditions grows, many people are choosing plant-based diets as a more compassionate alternative.

child eating vegetables

So, is eating meat natural?

While it has been a limited part of human history, the necessity and sustainability of consuming meat is problematic in today’s context. With the health risks associated with any meat consumption, the environmental damage it causes, and the ethical concerns around animal welfare, a plant-based diet is understandably the natural choice for many.

As we continue to learn more about the impact of our food choices, it becomes clear that the most natural diet isn’t just about what our parents fed us but also about what is best for our bodies and our planet.

Whether you’re considering going plant-based for your health, the environment, or animal welfare, the evidence is compelling.

For more insights into the benefits of a plant-based diet and to explore the nutritional aspects further, check out resources from experts like Dr. Michael Greger on NutritionFacts.org and documentaries like Forks Over Knives, which delve into the research behind the benefits of eating plants.

boon broth

We Have a Simple Next Step for You

At Boon for All-Ecco Bella, we understand that changing dietary habits can feel daunting. Don’t let it! Just think about one meal at a time, not your whole life. To help you we’ve crafted our 14-Day Delicious Plant-Based Boon Broth Gut and Skin Reset Kit to seamlessly integrate into your plant-based adventure.

Here’s how our kit supports your plant-based whole foods journey:

  • Boon Broth: Our delightful plant-based broth is not only a treat for your taste buds but also packed with bioavailable calcium, B Vitamins, Vitamin D, gut soothers to support your skin, digestion, bones, joints and overall vitality. Blend it with potatoes, rice, noodles, beans and vegetables to get the fiber and nutrients and go about your day satisfied.
  • Boon Collagen Reviver: Rich in deeply pigmented carotenoids like astaxanthin, lutein and lycopene, this supplement enhances your body’s natural collagen production, supporting the health and glow of your skin – reducing wrinkles and fine lines. Enriched with a delicious berry lemonade flavor to enjoy on its own or to mix into smoothies.
  • A Comprehensive Guide: To ensure your success, our reset kit comes complete with FAQs, a step-by-step guide, and a 14-day meal plan featuring delicious, easy-to-prepare recipes. Designed to help you enjoy a variety of nourishing meals and experience the full benefits of a plant-based diet.

References:

  • Greger, M. (n.d.). NutritionFacts.org. Retrieved January 4, 2025, from https://nutritionfacts.org/
  • World Health Organization. (2015). Q&A on the carcinogenicity of the consumption of red meat and processed meat.