The Australopithecus teeth had nitrogen levels so low they were practically leafy greens themselves.

The Australopithecus teeth had nitrogen levels so low they were practically leafy greens themselves.

The Australopithecus teeth had nitrogen levels so low they were practically leafy greens themselves.

Picture this: It’s 3.5 million years ago. You’re a fuzzy, upright-walking Australopithecus, roaming the prehistoric grasslands, munching on leaves, fruits, and whatever else doesn’t require a spear to catch. No steaks. No BBQs. No bone marrow feasts.

According to a recent study from the University of the Witwatersrand, early human ancestors had a diet that was surprisingly plant-based. Researchers analysed nitrogen isotopes in fossilized tooth enamel and found—drumroll, please—no evidence of meat consumption. That’s right, our great-great-(multiply by a million)-grandparents were not the bloodthirsty carnivores we once imagined.

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Teeth don’t lie
How do we know this? It all comes down to science magic—okay, fine, it’s actually isotope analysis.

Nitrogen isotopes in tooth enamel can reveal what an animal ate, because different foods leave distinct chemical signatures. Typically, carnivores have a higher nitrogen-15 to nitrogen-14 ratio than herbivores. But the Australopithecus teeth had nitrogen levels so low they were practically leafy greens themselves.

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So, instead of hunting prehistoric giraffes (or whatever was around back then), our ancient ancestors were probably too busy gathering roots, tubers, and the prehistoric equivalent of a kale smoothie.

What does this mean for us today?

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Well, for starters, it turns out eating more plants isn’t just a modern health fad—it’s literally in our DNA. The idea that our ancestors thrived on a meat-heavy diet? Probably just an outdated stereotype fuelled by movies and lores.

Of course, we eventually figured out fire, spears, and the joys of grilling, but for millions of years before that, our diet was mostly… well, leafy. So the next time you opt for a plant-based meal, just tell people you’re “eating like an Australopithecus.” Sounds way cooler than just saying you’re having a salad.