A new study published in Applied Physiology, Nutrition, and Metabolism has shown that eating animal protein is not linked to a higher risk of death due to heart disease or cancer and that eating animal protein may even have a small protective effect against cancer.
The study used data from nearly 16,000 adult participants in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey from 1988 through 1994. Each participant had their typical intake of plant and animal protein measured. Then, each person’s mortality data was collected through 2006, including death due to cancer, cardiovascular disease, or any cause. Previous studies have shown a link between eating animal protein and mortality, particularly from cancer. This study sought to further examine this association using updated methodology.
The results showed that there was no association with total protein intake, animal protein intake, or plant protein intake and all-cause mortality. Furthermore, none of these quantities were associated with death due to cardiovascular disease or cancer specifically. Interestingly, intake of animal protein was associated with a small protective effect against cancer mortality. While overall protein intake and protein types were not associated with mortality, the study showed increased all-cause mortality risk associated with smoking and a sedentary lifestyle.
The authors of the study noted that there tends to be a lot of confusion surrounding protein and health, particularly regarding how much protein to consume and which types of protein are most beneficial for health. The results of this study suggest that both animal and plant protein sources are likely to promote health and longevity without raising the risk of heart disease or cancer. While these results are promising, it is important to remember that this study was observational in nature and therefore could not determine cause and effect.
Sources: Applied Physiology, Nutrition, and Metabolism; Science Daily
