plant protein
The source of the protein we eat (plant vs. animal) matters to our health because food is a package deal. Plant protein, unlike animal protein, naturally contains healthy nutrients thought to extend our lifespan, significantly reduce the risks of cardiovascular disease and certain types of cancer, boost our immune system, and prevent/treat rheumatoid arthritis. Plant-based diets may also prevent both age-related weight gain and premature puberty (see also here). Gluten is a healthy source of plant protein for 99% of Americans. Beans, including lentils, are another excellent plant protein source. Even processed meat-free “meats” are better for our health than animal protein (see, for example a comparison between chicken and cholesterol-free plant protein chicken). And the new USDA Guidelines (MyPlate) recognize plant protein, including soy, as healthy alternatives to animal protein.
Topic summary contributed by Elizabeth Stolle.
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Watch videos about plant protein
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Harvard’s Meat and Mortality StudiesMonday, March 12, 2012, the Harvard Health Professionals Follow-up Study and the Harvard Nurses' Health Study concluded that red meat consumption was associated with living a significantly shorter..
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Kale and the Immune SystemComparing the immune system-boosting effect of cooked versus raw kale.
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Plant-Based Atkins DietHarvard study found that men and women eating low carb diets live significantly shorter lives, but what about the "eco-Atkins diet," a plant-based low carbohydrate diet?
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Dietary Guidelines: Progressing From Pyramid to PlateMyPlate represents a significant improvement over the USDA Food Guide Pyramid.
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Plant Protein PreferableSince foods are a package deal, Dr. Walter Willet, the Chair of Harvard's nutrition department, recommends we emphasize plant sources of protein rather than animal sources.
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Protein & PubertyThe type of protein young children eat at a critical age may affect when they start puberty.
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Diet & Rheumatoid ArthritisPreventing and treating rheumatoid arthritis through diet.
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The Healthiest LentilRed, green, or French green?
