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<p>Plant-based burgers have soared in popularity over the past couple of years. Are these meat alternatives healthier for you than the real thing? Introducing more plant-based foods in your diet is a good thing, says Katherine Zeratsky, a Mayo Clinic registered dietitian nutritionist, but pay attention to the ingredients.</p>
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<p>It looks like a burger. It cooks like a burger. Some say it tastes like a burger. But is it healthier?&nbsp;</p>
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<p>"It really depends on how that plant-based burger is made."</p>
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<p>Katherine Zeratsky says the benefit of plant-based burgers usually comes in the form of fiber and other nutrients. But then comes the issue of fat.</p>
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<p>"Some plant-based burgers are going to have added fat, and oftentimes, the added fat is a saturated fat."</p>
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<p>Commonly added fats are coconut oil or palm oil. Like with natural meat burgers, saturated fats can be concerning.&nbsp;</p>
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<p>"Saturated fat has an association with raising our bad cholesterol, and the concern is that it may increase our heart disease risk."</p>
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<p>High sodium and calories also can make a dent in health benefits of a veggie burger. Zeratsky says eating more plant-based foods like vegetables or whole grains is a good approach.</p>
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<p>"Just compare products."</p>
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<p>Along with added fiber, there's another benefit to a plant-based diet.</p>
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<p>In general, switching to a plant-based burger is an opportunity to allow someone who enjoys meat to have something that is similar—yet more likely—a healthier choice.<br><br>Exclusive content from CARE magazine </p>
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<p><a href="https://newsnetwork.mayoclinic.org/discussion/mayo-clinic-minute-are-plant-based-burgers-better-for-you/">https://newsnetwork.mayoclinic.org/discussion/mayo-clinic-minute-are-plant-based-burgers-better-for-you/</a></p>
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