How do eating habits affect people? Researchers at the Max Planck Institute wanted to find out: In a large-scale study, they compared people who eat meat with those who consume little or none.
Diet with or without meat: these are the differences
The researchers were interested in three characteristics – the subjects’ weight, their mental health and personality traits. The results:
1. Weight
Participants who ate less meat and dairy products had a lower BMI – i.e. they were leaner. According to the study, this is because animal products are often higher in calories and contain more saturated fats. They are also consumed more frequently than processed foods and are therefore even higher in calories.
2. Personality
People who ate fewer animal products tended to be more introverted in the study. It is unclear what the reason for this is, says Veronica Witte, head of the study, on Bayerischer Rundfunk (BR). “It could be because more introverted people tend to have more restrictive eating habits or become more socially isolated because of their eating habits.”
The scientists also investigated whether there was a link between the plant-based diet and neuroticism. People Higher in Neuroticism People are considered to be more anxious, moody, and irritable. Previous studies have suggested a link between a vegetarian diet and neuroticism. However, the current study could not confirm this.
3. Mental Health
The study also analyzed whether vegetarians were more likely to be depressed. Previous studies had pointed this out as well. However, the researchers at the Max Planck Institute were also unable to confirm this connection.
Lessons from the study
The scientists conclude from their study that a vegetarian lifestyle can above all be an effective way to combat obesity. The results also suggest that introverts are more likely to adjust their diet accordingly. Further studies are needed to clarify why this is the case.
Utopia says: The findings of this study again indicate that a vegetarian diet does not have any health disadvantages – on the contrary. And it’s better for animals and the environment anyway.
