Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine in the US found that excess protein in the diet may increase the risk of developing atherosclerosis. In particular, an amino acid called leucine plays an important role in the development of pathological processes associated with plaque formation and increased stiffness of the arteries. Research results published In the journal Nature Metabolism.
The study, which included both humans and mice, found that consuming more than 22% of daily calories from protein could lead to increased activation of immune cells involved in the formation of atherosclerotic plaques.
It turns out that excess protein in the diet can negatively affect macrophages, which are responsible for the removal of “cellular debris” from the body. The desire to consume more protein-rich foods has been associated with the accumulation of macrophages in the walls of blood vessels and the formation of atherosclerotic plaques.
It has also been found that leucine, an amino acid found in animal products such as beef, eggs, and milk, is significantly associated with abnormal macrophage activity.
Scientists noted that excessive protein diets may be harmful to health in the long term. According to researchers, the trend to increase protein intake stems from the common misconception that protein is the most important nutrient for a healthy lifestyle. In reality, a balanced diet plays a more important role.
Previously recognizedWhether it is necessary to replace regular table salt with sea salt.