Korede Abdullah in Lagos
A recent 30-year study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that consuming a higher ratio of plant-based protein to animal-based protein may lead to a reduced risk of heart disease.
Researchers at the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health analysed data from over 200,000 participants and discovered that those with higher plant-to-animal protein ratios had a 19% lower risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) and a 27% lower risk of coronary heart disease (CHD).
The study’s findings suggest that incorporating more plant-based protein sources, such as quinoa, edamame, and chickpeas, into one’s diet may have significant benefits for heart health.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), heart disease is the leading cause of death for both adult men and women in the US, accounting for approximately 1 in 5 deaths in 2022.
The researchers noted that participants with higher plant-to-animal protein ratios tended to have lower BMIs, were less likely to be smokers, and were more physically active.
While the study did not identify an optimal plant-to-animal protein ratio, the results suggest that emphasizing plant-based protein sources may be a valuable strategy for reducing heart disease risk.
The study’s lead author emphasized the importance of dietary choices in maintaining heart health, stating that “people concerned about their heart disease risk can lower it by exercising and making better food choices.”
The researchers also noted that more research is needed to fully understand the relationship between plant-based protein intake and heart disease risk.
The study’s findings have significant implications for public health, particularly in light of the growing prevalence of heart disease worldwide.
By emphasizing the importance of plant-based protein sources, healthcare professionals and policymakers may be able to promote healthier dietary habits and reduce the burden of heart disease on individuals and communities.
Overall, the study provides valuable insights into the potential benefits of plant-based protein intake for heart health and highlights the need for further research in this area.
