When Is Fake Better Than The Real Thing?

*This is a collaborative post on when is fake better than the real thing?

In recent years, we’ve all become a lot more health conscious and environmentally aware. As a result, many of us started to move away from synthetic substitutes in favour of a more natural lifestyle. The fact that we’re using less plastics and consuming less e-numbers is definitely a good thing. But is natural always better than synthetic? Are there some cases where the opposite may in fact be true? Below are a few cases where you may be able to make the argument that fake is better. 

Fake tan?

If you’re looking to give your skin a golden glow, slapping on some fake tan may in fact be a better alternative to lying in the sun. While a fake tan may not always look as convincing, it’s a lot healthier. Our skin has to burn to tan, and this can increase the risk of developing premature wrinkles and skin cancer. While skin cancer treatment has come a long way, it’s something you may be able to avoid by sticking to fake tan.

Fake meat?

Synthetic vegan-friendly meats are made from plant proteins. While they typically do not have the same protein content as real meat (their one big downside), they’re still made from natural ingredients and may help to reduce the risk of certain health problems like cancers associated with meats like beef. And of course, no animals are harmed during the making of them. This also helps the environment by reducing the need to farm as many animals. All in all, fake meat could be a better option for those that want to be healthier and more environmentally-friendly.

Fake sugar?

This one is definitely divisive. Artificial sugar has many health benefits over natural sugar – it won’t rot your teeth and it won’t impact your blood sugar levels (which makes it ideal for those with diabetes). Unfortunately, several health risks have been associated with artificial sugar such as bladder cancer and even brain tumours. Artificial sugar also doesn’t satisfy the body’s sweet craving like sugar does, which encourages people to overindulge in this sweetener. All in all, there are pros and cons.

Fake leather?

Unlike real leather, fake leather isn’t an animal product. It also has practical benefits – it’s much easier to maintain and is available in an array of colours. You could definitely argue that fake leather isn’t as durable and that it may even contribute to plastic waste (although many options are recyclable). However, for general products, it’s a better option.

Fake Christmas trees?

This one is also up for debate. The transportation and disposal of real Christmas trees results in a lot of carbon emissions. For artificial Christmas trees, this carbon footprint is even greater – however unlike real trees, artificial trees can get used year after year. A good quality artificial tree could end up having less of a carbon footprint in the long run. They’re also less messy than the real thing (although you could argue they don’t look or smell as good).