A recent study revealed that plant-based proteins might be the key to optimal heart health.
The research, published in the American Journal of Clinical Medicine, highlights how the balance between animal and plant proteins affects heart health.
Here’s a fact: heart disease is a leading cause of death for both men and women in the US. In 2022, it claimed one in five lives.
The usual culprits behind heart disease include smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, poor dietary habits, and genetics. However, regular exercise and reducing red meat and processed foods can significantly improve heart health.
Researchers from Harvard University analyzed 30 years’ worth of health and dietary data from approximately 200,000 people to determine whether plant or animal proteins affect heart health.
At the beginning of the study, participants’ hearts were in good condition. After 30 years, 16,118 participants developed cardiovascular issues, 10,187 of which were coronary artery disease.
The study found that participants who consumed more plant protein reduced their risk of heart disease by 19% and their chances of developing coronary artery disease by 27%.
Based on the findings, it is recommended that one part of plant protein be consumed for every two parts of animal protein—a 1:3 ratio.
The plant protein group also tended to have lower BMIs, smoke less, and be more likely to exercise regularly than those who consumed more animal protein.
So, what’s the takeaway? The researchers are clear: swapping some animal proteins for plant-based options could be your ticket to a healthier heart. It’s time to embrace beans, lentils, and other plant-based proteins!
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