Does a High Protein Diet lead to Atherosclerosis?
A recent study (Zhang et al) has garnered quite a bit of media attention. In it, the results indicated that high protein intake, via activation of mTORC1, drives the development and progression of atherosclerosis. Scary, right? We all need to eat low protein now, right?
Well, not so fast.
According to Dr, Peter Attia (peterattiamd.com), there are a few things we need to keep in mind.
1. The study used a combination of human participants, mouse models, and cultured cells. Within the mouse models, the study used genetically modified mice (apoE-/-) which do not represent normal human physiology. These mice are engineered to be prone to atherosclerosis in a way that does not naturally occur in humans, which can significantly skew results.
2. The study also suggests that high dietary protein, particularly leucine, activates mTORC1 signaling, which has been linked to decreased autophagy and increased atherosclerosis in these specific mice. However, mTORC1 activation by dietary protein is a normal, acute response in humans that regulates important functions such as muscle protein synthesis and is not indicative of long-term health risks.
3. The scientific evidence does not support a significant risk of atherosclerosis from normal or even high levels of dietary protein. Dietary protein is essential for maintaining muscle mass and overall physical health, especially as we age.
4. Dr. Attia criticizes the media's interpretation and sensationalism of the study's results, suggesting that the conclusions drawn are far removed from practical, human-applicable insights and are based on a model that is not representative of typical human physiology.
In my opinion, there needs to be a more nuanced interpretation of research findings, especially those that are derived from animal models. Animal models may have the ability to give us a direction, but may not translate directly to human health outcomes
Buyer beware when the media gets ahold and touts specific studies relating to nutrition science. It can be a delicate, nuanced, and complicated topic.
As always,
GIVE YOUR BODY WHAT IT NEEDS, WHEN IT NEEDS IT.
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