evidence: The question of which dietary category humans fall into is one that has sparked much debate. What we know for sure is that there are people who thrive on plant-based diets and who avoid consuming not just meat but all animal-derived products. There are also a great number of people who consume omnivorous diets consisting of both animal- and plant-derived foods. The small population of purely carnivorous humans is made up primarily of those seeking to lose a large amount of weight quickly. Following a purely carnivorous diet void of any plant-derived ingredients and foods can lead to constipation due to a lack of fiber, bad cholesterol, and increased risk of heart disease. [...] Both our nutritional needs and our physical makeup suggest that humans are not carnivorous animals. Consuming only meat excludes the fiber necessary for us to maintain a healthy gut — one that is able to function without becoming backed up, causing constipation. Further, consuming high levels of meat, specifically red meat, has been linked to decreased cardiovascular health. [...] The arguments surrounding whether humans are biologically obligated to eat meat are numerous and problematic. One oft-heard argument is that humans have canines and thus must be carnivores. The reality is that there are a number of herbivores, such as gorillas, with canines far more impressive and dangerous than our own. When it comes to teeth the ones that really matter are absent from our mouths. Carnivores sport carnassials that are blade-like and sharp, ideal for slicing; humans lack these teeth.