Glossary

The protein myth is the false claim that animal protein is superior to plant protein for human nutrition. This myth dates back to old scientific studies on rats, who have different amino acid needs to humans. The rats did better on the animal protein (i.e. casein) than on the plant protein. The myth was born by making the mistake of using the results of the study to make protein recommendations for humans. Ever since, people have used the myth to form the false beliefs that:

• more animal protein makes you stronger and more masculine
• more plant protein makes you weaker and more feminine

Evidence to easily dispel the protein myth:

• Many of the strongest animals on the planet are herbivorous and primarily eat plant protein:
  • elephants
  • rhinoceroses
  • hippopotamuses
  • bovids:
    • buffalo
    • oxen
  • gorillas
• Increased consumption of animal protein is associated with increased disease including cancer, and heart disease.