Protein-Packed Foods May Not Be as Healthy as You Think, Study Finds

The study is published in Journal Nutrients, found that the type of protein consumed played a significant role in cardiovascular health
Participants who consumed high amounts of animal-based protein, such as meat and dairy products, were more likely to experience cardiovascular disease (Representational Image: Unsplash)
Participants who consumed high amounts of animal-based protein, such as meat and dairy products, were more likely to experience cardiovascular disease (Representational Image: Unsplash)
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A recent study has found that protein-packed foods may not be as healthy as previously thought. The study, which was conducted by a team of researchers, aimed to investigate the relationship between protein intake and cardiovascular health.

The researchers analyzed data from over 120,000 participants and found that those who consumed high amounts of protein were more likely to experience cardiovascular disease. The study is published in Journal Nutrients, which found that the type of protein consumed played a significant role in cardiovascular health. For example, participants who consumed high amounts of plant-based protein, such as legumes and nuts, were less likely to experience cardiovascular disease.

The processing and preparation of protein-rich foods played a significant role in their health (Representational Image: Unsplash)
The processing and preparation of protein-rich foods played a significant role in their health (Representational Image: Unsplash)

On the other hand, participants who consumed high amounts of animal-based protein, such as meat and dairy products, were more likely to experience cardiovascular disease. The researchers also found that the processing and preparation of protein-rich foods played a significant role in their health effects. Participants who consumed high amounts of processed meat, such as sausages and bacon, were more likely to experience cardiovascular disease.

The findings suggest that while protein is an essential nutrient, excessive intake of certain types of protein may have negative health effects. The researchers recommend that individuals consume protein in moderation and focus on plant-based sources, such as legumes, nuts, and seeds.
The researchers recommend that health organizations and policymakers (Representational Image: Unsplash)
The researchers recommend that health organizations and policymakers (Representational Image: Unsplash)

Researchers examined 4,325 processed foods across 12 categories and found that 13% of them made protein-related claims. The frequency of these claims varied significantly between food types. Notably, plant-based meat alternatives had the highest proportion of protein claims (68.2%), followed by energy bars (35.3%) and dairy-free yogurt substitutes (21.3%). Conversely, no protein claims were found in biscuits and fruit drinks.

The study's lead author noted that the importance of considering the overall nutritional quality of protein-rich foods, rather than just their protein content. The researchers recommend that health organizations and policymakers reconsider their dietary guidelines and emphasize the importance of consuming protein from plant-based sources.

Reference:

  1. Beltrá, M. 2024. Are Foods with Protein Claims Healthy? A Study of the Spanish Market. Nutrients. (Retrieved From: https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/16/24/4281)

(Input From Various Sources)

(Rehash/Neha Kamble/MSM)

Participants who consumed high amounts of animal-based protein, such as meat and dairy products, were more likely to experience cardiovascular disease (Representational Image: Unsplash)
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