Eating animal-sourced protein foods is not associated with an increased risk of death, and may even offer modest protective benefits against cancer-related mortality, according to new research.
The study sheds light on long-standing debates around protein consumption and long-term health.
Published in Applied Physiology, Nutrition, and Metabolism, the study analyzed dietary and health data from nearly 16,000 adults aged 19 and older, sourced from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES III). Researchers focused on patterns of animal and plant protein intake and their associations with mortality from cardiovascular disease, cancer, and all causes.
Key Findings
The study found no increased risk of death for individuals consuming higher amounts of animal protein. Interestingly, higher animal protein intake was linked to a modest but statistically significant reduction in cancer-related mortality.
Dr. Stuart Phillips, Professor and Chair of Kinesiology at McMaster University, explained, “This study adds clarity around protein consumption, helping individuals make informed, evidence-based dietary choices for long-term health.”
Advanced Analytical Methods
To ensure accurate results, the research team employed rigorous statistical techniques. These included:
- National Cancer Institute (NCI) Method: Used to estimate long-term dietary intake.
- Multivariate Markov Chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) Modelling: Adjusted for daily variations in protein intake to minimize measurement errors.
These methods allowed the researchers to create a reliable picture of habitual protein consumption and its relationship to mortality.
Animal vs Plant Protein
When analyzing total, animal, and plant protein separately, no significant associations were found with death from any cause, cardiovascular disease, or cancer. However, when examining both plant and animal protein together, results suggested:
- Plant protein: Minimal impact on cancer mortality.
- Animal protein: Slight protective effect against cancer-related death.
Lead researcher Yanni Papanikolaou, MPH, emphasized, “Combined with clinical trial evidence, these findings support the inclusion of both animal and plant protein foods in a healthy diet.”
Implications for Health and Nutrition
This research reinforces that both animal and plant proteins can promote longevity and overall health. Individuals concerned about protein intake can consider the following:
- Balanced Diet: Include a mix of animal and plant protein sources to support muscle health and metabolic function.
- Moderation: Focus on appropriate portion sizes without over-relying on processed protein foods.
- Long-Term Patterns: Consistent intake of nutrient-rich protein foods is more important than short-term variations.
While observational studies cannot prove causation, they are essential for identifying population-wide patterns and guiding dietary recommendations.
Expert Insights
Professor Phillips noted, “Our rigorous methods ensure that long-term dietary patterns are accurately assessed, highlighting that animal protein is not harmful when consumed as part of a balanced diet.”
Papanikolaou added, “When both observational and clinical data are considered, it’s clear that incorporating a variety of protein foods supports health and longevity.”
Funding Transparency
The study was funded by the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) through the Beef Checkoff program. The organization did not influence the study design, data collection, analysis, or publication, ensuring independent and unbiased results.
The findings provide reassurance for individuals including animal protein in their diets. Animal-sourced protein does not increase mortality risk and may offer slight protection against cancer-related death, complementing the benefits of plant-based proteins. Maintaining a balanced diet with diverse protein sources can support long-term health and promote longevity.
