Eating more plant protein may lower the risk of heart disease as much as 27%

ISLAMABAD DEC 05 (ONLINE): With deaths attributed to heart disease holding the top spot in the U.S., researchers wonder how to cut that number. While medications and technological interventions help, diet remains a focus point for those looking to prevent heart disease or improve their health after being diagnosed with it. Researchers at the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health recently released the results of a 30-year study that analyzed the effect consuming more plant-based protein than animal-based protein has on heart health.

While the research did not yield a specific ratio of plant to animal protein to incorporate into dietary guidelines, the researchers did learn that people who consume more plant-based protein generally have lower ratios of both CHD and CVD. People with the highest ratio of plant to animal protein had a 19% lower risk of CVD and a 27% lower risk of CHD. According to the Centers for Disease Control and PreventionTrusted Source, heart disease is the leading cause of death for both adult men and women. In 2022, around 1 out of 5 deaths were attributed to heart disease.

People concerned about their heart disease risk can lower it by exercising and making better food choices. For example, choosing lean meats vs. fatty red meats can reduce heart disease risk. While protein is a staple in a diet, and focusing on lean proteins is more beneficial for the heart, some researchers wonder if people should focus more on consuming proteins derived from a non-animal source.