New Research Shows This Protein May Prevent Disease and Increase Longevity

While it’s common knowledge that a plant-based diet is healthy, new research highlights that plant protein can, in fact, help you live longer.

According to a study published in the BMJ , every 3% increase in daily consumption of plant protein was linked with a 5% lower risk of death.

Read: Here Are The 4 Science-Backed Benefits of Eating A Plant-Based Diet
 
 

Plant Protein Has Been Linked to a Longer Life Span

After analyzing data from 32 previous studies, researchers tallied up deaths during a follow-up period of 3.5 to 32 years. Out of 113,039 total deaths, 16,429 were from cardiovascular disease and 22,303 were from cancer.

Researchers found that people who consumed the most protein in their diet were 6% less likely to die prematurely compared to those who consumed less protein.
 

When studies examined various sources of protein, they discovered plant protein – not animal protein – was associated with longevity.

 
But here’s what’s interesting: when they examined various sources of protein, they discovered plant protein, not animal protein, was associated with longevity.

Lead author Ahmad Esmaillzadeh, PhD, explains, “People should consume healthy protein sources like legumes, nuts and grains in place of red meat and processed meats. This behavior can help reduce the risk of several diseases and premature death.”
 

 
 
Read: Here Are 7 Plant-Based Meat Alternatives To Try For Your Next Meatless Meal

Worried about your heart health? The study also showed a 12% lower risk of premature death from cardiovascular disease among people who consumed the most plant protein.
 
 

Additional Research Connecting a Plant-Based Diet with Longevity

One study showed consuming three servings of fruits, vegetables and legumes resulted in a 22% lower risk of premature death and a 42% lower risk of premature death from cardiovascular disease, specifically.

Another 8-year-long study examined women and men without cardiovascular disease or cancer. People who increased their meat intake by a ½ serving daily had a 10% higher chance of premature death. This is especially true for red meat, which was linked with a 13% increased risk of death.

Further research illustrates the health dangers of red meat. A study found that people who ate the most red and processed meat had a 26% higher risk of premature death compared to those who rarely consumed it.

Want To Learn More? Here’s Why Processed and Red Meats Are Linked To Cancer
 
 

Live a Long, Healthy Life by Eating a Plant-Based Diet

So, what is it about plant protein that makes it so good for us? It’s high in fiber, which helps you stay full longer and ultimately, consume less calories. Fiber also increases the amount of good bacteria in the gut, and a healthy gut leads to a healthy body.

Read: Here Are 5 Key Ways to Maintain Optimal Gut Health

Aside from being filled with fiber, plant protein is packed with antioxidants, which as the name suggests, detoxifies the body. Antioxidants reduce inflammation, lower blood pressure, and as a result, help prevent disease and promote longevity.

Pass the leafy greens, please!

All included information is not intended to treat or diagnose. The views expressed are those of the author and should be attributed solely to the author. For medical questions, please consult your healthcare provider.