The theory that humans needed meat to evolve would mean that every meat-eating mammal would have evolved to our level of awareness and intelligence.

Even the leanest cuts of organic meat contain fat and artery-clogging cholesterol. Studies show that the populations of the world that are the healthiest into their later years and have the greatest longevity consume a mostly plant-based diet.

The meat industry continues to perpetuate the myth that meat supplies a better source of protein than plant-based sources.  The amino acids that are the building blocks of protein are the same from both sources. Gorillas and cows get all the protein they need from plant-based sources.

There is a reason why many professional athletes like No. 1 ranked tennis player Novak Djokovic, NFL lineman David Carter, and quarterback Tom Brady eat a plant-based diet. They report less inflammation, reduced recovery time from injury, and increased endurance.

Every day, 3 million animals are killed in the U.S. Just like our beloved dogs and cats, these animals have the same intelligence, depth of emotion and more importantly, feel fear and pain. There is no solid moral argument for consuming animals.

We can sufficiently nourish our bodies without meat. Healthy plant-based foods contain plenty of protein, vitamins, and minerals, without destroying the environment, injuring our health or hurting animals.

Written by John Cielukowski for www.floridatoday.com