Plant proteins help you live longer. In a study published Aug. 1, 2016, in Jama Internal Medicine, the effects on longevity of a diet high in plant proteins-legumes first and foremost-and one high in animal proteins, from eggs, dairy products and especially red meat, including processed meat, were compared.
U.S. researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital examined the fates of more than 131 thousand people (64.7 percent women) with an average age of 49 years, monitored since 1980. By comparing their diets, they observed that individuals accustomed to consuming a lot of animal protein were prone to early mortality related to cardiovascular disease, particularly in the presence of risk factors such as smoking, lack of exercise or being overweight. Those, on the other hand, who favor protein intake from vegetables live longer and stay leaner.
The research does not claim that plant proteins are protective and animal proteins harmful; their levels may simply be markers of something else. However, it is clear that their nature affects the pattern of survival. Certainty that makes scientists suggest increasing plant-based protein consumption and limiting animal protein, favoring fish and chicken.
Notes
(1) Song Mhttps://archinte.jamanetwork.com/article.aspx?articleid=2540540
Fung TT Hu FB, et al. Association of Animal and Plant Protein Intake With All-Cause and Cause-Specific Mortality. JAMA Intern Med. 2016;176(10):1453–1463. doi:10.1001/jamainternmed.2016.4182