Common misconceptions surrounding plant-based diets suggest that they can't support muscle gains. However, this study proves this theory wrong. A study carried out by the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign team discovered that there is little difference in the rate of protein synthesis in both plant-based and omnivorous diets. The study consisted of 40 healthy, active young adults following either vegan or omnivorous diets during resistance training over nine days. The study gathered heavy water and muscle samples to measure the rate of muscle protein synthesis in 40 healthy and active young adults who followed either diet.  Researchers ensured that participants, who were completing resistance training as part of the study, consumed the same amount of protein daily, 1.1-1.2 grams per kilogram of body weight. The study found that the “anabolic action of animal vs. vegan dietary patterns” is similar; therefore, neither diet is more beneficial than the other in terms of building muscle.  The study found no truth behind the common “gym bro” myth that suggests that evenly distributing protein intake throughout the day leads to increased muscle gains. The study concluded that, regardless of whether participants consumed animal-based or plant-based proteins, their muscles produced new proteins at similar rates. In addition to the physical differences between the diet groups, the study also found that those on vegan diets had higher energy levels compared to those on omnivorous diets.