Are high protein diets bad for the arteries?

High-protein diets can impact arterial health, but the effects depend on several factors, such as the source of protein, total nutritional intake, and individual health conditions.

Some studies suggest that a high intake of animal proteins, especially those from red and processed meat, may be associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. This may be partly due to the higher amounts of saturated fats and cholesterol that are often present in these foods.

In contrast, high-protein diets consisting primarily of plant proteins (such as legumes, nuts, and seeds) are often associated with a lower risk of cardiovascular disease. Plant-based proteins tend to be lower in saturated fat and higher in fiber and antioxidants, which can be beneficial for arterial health.

An increase in the amino acid leucine was found in patients following a high-protein diet. This leads to atherosclerotic plaque in the arteries. This was mainly observed in people who use protein supplements.

High-protein diets are not necessarily bad for the arteries, but the source of protein is crucial. Plant-based proteins generally have more beneficial effects on arterial health than animal proteins, especially those that come from red and processed meats.

Source: https://www.nature.com/articles/s42255-024-00984-2

Author: Prof. Dr. Dirk Devroey - Latest update: 2024-07-01 - Copyright: Clinifacts 2024