A recent large-scale analysis of U.S. adults from NHANES III data (1988–1994) has shown that usual intake of both animal and plant proteins is not associated with higher risk of death from all causes, cardiovascular disease (CVD), or cancer.
🔍 Key points from the study:
• No significant increase in all-cause or CVD mortality with higher consumption of animal or plant proteins.
• A slight protective effect of animal protein was observed against cancer-related mortality.
• Circulating levels of IGF-1 (a hormone thought linked to cancer risk) showed no association with mortality.
• The findings remain consistent across different age groups, including adults 50-65 years old, contradicting some previous reports warning against high protein intake.
This suggests that moderate to high protein intake from either animal or plant sources, within typical diet ranges, is generally safe and may even offer some benefits — especially regarding cancer mortality and animal protein.
Bottom line: Don’t stress about protein source when it comes to long-term mortality risk. A balanced diet that includes adequate protein can support health without added risk.
DeSimone Functional Medicine
Empowering you on your path to health
