Myths

Myth 1: The protein myth

This is the biggest myth out there—a combination of several myths. People are taught from childhood by the meat and dairy industry to believe the information below about protein. There is not a single case of protein deficiency ever reported in history. The only way to be deficient in protein is to not eat enough calories—in which case you will also be deficient in fat, carbohydrate, minerals, antioxidants, phytonutrients, and more. Protein deficiency is impossible if you are eating enough food.

Myth 2: We need lots of protein to be healthy. False

Our protein needs are very low. Our bodies efficiently recycle protein we already have. Our problem is getting too much protein and the wrong kind. If you eat enough calories, you get enough protein—you never have to think about protein. Athletes naturally eat more calories and therefore more protein.

Myth 3: We need animal protein to be healthy. False

Animal proteins have been shown to contribute to osteoporosis, kidney stones, gout, hypertension, diabetes, and cancer growth. Animal protein comes packaged with animal fat and cholesterol—both linked to vascular disease. Plant protein does not cause these problems.

Myth 4: Plants don't have any protein. False

All plant foods contain protein. Many have more protein per calorie than animal products. There is adequate protein in a banana.

Myth 5: Plants contain incomplete proteins. False

All proteins are complete proteins. The “incomplete protein” idea comes from old rat studies. Humans are not rats and have different protein requirements.

Myth 6: Vegans are weak. False

Meat has nothing to do with strength—exercise increases strength, not food. Examples: strongman Patrik Baboumian (Wikipedia) and Olympic champion Carl Lewis (Wikipedia).

Myth 7: Vegans will have stunted growth. False

Vegans are, on average, taller than meat eaters. PubMed reference.