Pittsburgh, PA – A new study published in the journal Nature Metabolism has revealed concerning findings about the effects of excessive protein consumption on the human body.
The study, conducted by researchers at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, suggests that consuming too much protein could have detrimental effects on arteries. This is due to the potential for excessive protein intake to lead to a condition called atherosclerosis, which is the buildup of fats, cholesterol, and other substances in and on the artery walls.
According to senior and co-corresponding author Babak Razani, MD, Ph.D., consuming more than 22% of dietary calories from protein can lead to increased activation of immune cells that contribute to the formation of arterial plaques. The researchers found that nearly a quarter of the US population gets over 22% of all daily calories from protein, mostly from animal sources.
The study also suggests that the recommended portion sizes for protein intake may need to be reevaluated, as exceeding certain caloric thresholds of protein could pose risks to arterial health. For example, the study found that consuming more than 440 calories of protein for women and more than 550 calories for men on a daily basis could potentially lead to artery damage.
Moreover, the research sheds light on the potential differences in the effects of plant-based vs. animal-based proteins on heart health and metabolic function. This distinction is particularly important considering that hospitals often recommend protein-rich diets for patients to preserve muscle mass and strength.
The study’s findings carry significant implications for dietary guidelines and public health recommendations, as the study offers insight into how precise modifications to diets can influence bodily function and mitigate disease risks. Furthermore, the study brings into question the common belief that high protein intake is essential for a healthy lifestyle, suggesting that balance in meal composition may be a more critical factor in mitigating cardiovascular conditions.