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Ancient Ancestors Thrived on Plant-Based Diet, Study Reveals

1/23/2025

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Summary

Story summary

A groundbreaking study from the Max Planck Institute uncovers that Australopithecus, our ancient ancestors from South Africa's Sterkfontein Caves, thrived on a predominantly plant-based diet, with only a hint of meat. By examining nitrogen isotopes in their tooth enamel, researchers discovered herbivore-like ratios, sparking new inquiries into how dietary changes may have shaped human evolution.

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Story summary

A groundbreaking study from the Max Planck Institute uncovers that Australopithecus, our ancient ancestors from South Africa's Sterkfontein Caves, thrived on a predominantly plant-based diet, with only a hint of meat. By examining nitrogen isotopes in their tooth enamel, researchers discovered herbivore-like ratios, sparking new inquiries into how dietary changes may have shaped human evolution.