In a recent study published in the journal Appetite, 13 male athletes between the ages of 22 and 37 were interviewed regarding their views on plant-based diets versus meat-based diets. The athletes were from Finland and the Netherlands, with a mix of vegetarians, vegans, and mixed-eaters (eating both plant-based and meat-based foods). The article focused on the concept of “carnism”, which refers to the belief that a meat-based diet is natural, normal, and necessary for human health and physical performance.
Interestingly, the study found that while many athletes consider meat as normal and necessary for performance, none of the athletes questioned considered it to be natural in terms of man’s relationship with nature. Additionally, the idea of a plant-based diet as incompatible with masculinity was not found to be a dominant view among respondents. In fact, some athletes considered a plant-based diet to be a new form of masculinity and respected those who followed it.
Traditionally, meat has been seen as vital for athletes due to its high protein content. However, many athletes on a plant-based diet questioned this narrative and even believed that a plant-based diet improved their performance. While some athletes viewed meat as tasty, most considered it to be unhealthy and saw giving it up as an act of sacrifice and asceticism.
Adopting a plant-based diet is not always easy for athletes, especially those in team sports who may have limited control over their diets due to restrictions from coaches or nutritionists. However, the study suggests that increased availability of plant-based options could lead to more athletes making the switch. Stigma around veganism was also noted, with some athletes experiencing pushback from teammates regarding their dietary choice.
In terms of masculinity, the study found that traditional ideas of meat being linked to masculinity are changing. Male athletes are seen as role models for food and health, and their views reflect a reformulation of masculinity where caring about animal welfare and sustainability is no longer considered a feminine trait.
The study provides insight into the changing attitudes towards plant-based diets and the role of masculinity in shaping these attitudes. As athletes are often seen as role models, they have the potential to lead by example and influence others to adopt a plant-based diet.