Heart disease is no longer just a concern for older adults—it’s becoming alarmingly common in younger generations. With heart attacks on the rise globally, understanding the role of diet in heart health is more critical than ever. A groundbreaking study from Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health has uncovered the foods that can protect your heart and the ones you should avoid. Want to know which foods to embrace for a healthier heart? Let’s dive in! 🥗❤️
It was found that people who consumed higher amounts of plant-based protein compared to animal protein had significantly reduced risks of cardiovascular disease (CVD) and coronary heart disease (CHD). This finding especially raises questions about the dietary habits in Turkey, where animal protein often dominates.
Published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, the research tracked participants’ protein intake. Participants from three large cohort studies had both their plant-based and animal protein consumption monitored, and their overall heart health outcomes were examined.
Those who derived approximately 21% of their total calories from protein experienced reduced heart disease risk. People who consumed more plant-based protein than animal protein had a 19% lower risk of cardiovascular disease and a 27% lower risk of coronary heart disease!
Dr. Frank Hu, a senior author of the study and a professor of nutrition and epidemiology at Harvard, stated: “We found that higher plant-based protein intake, particularly when it replaced red and processed meats, led to a significant reduction in heart disease risk.”
Experts suggest consuming plant-based sources like nuts, legumes, and seeds. Legumes and nuts, rich in fiber, healthy fats, antioxidants, vital vitamins, and minerals, stand out as top choices. In contrast, saturated fats in animal proteins, especially in red and processed meats, can increase the risk of heart disease.
It seems the fibers in plant-based proteins help reduce cardiovascular risk, while the saturated fats in animal proteins contribute to heart diseases.
Dr. Hu adds: “Transitioning to a plant-based diet doesn’t mean completely eliminating meat.” A diet plan that reduces animal protein and supplements with legumes and nuts could be beneficial for your health.