Want to build muscle? Eat more plants

In this episode of NPR's Life Kit, host Marielle interviews NPR health correspondent Will Stone about new research on plant versus animal protein and their effects on muscle building. Will explains that while animal protein contains all essential amino acids in abundance, plant proteins can be lower in certain amino acids. However, recent studies show that a diverse, protein-rich vegan diet can yield the same muscle gains as a meat-inclusive diet, provided sufficient protein intake (1.2-1.6 grams per kilogram of body weight) is achieved through varied plant sources like beans, tofu, and quinoa, or blended plant protein powders, without needing obsessive tracking of specific amino acids.