Study Finds No Link Between Animal Protein Consumption and Increased Mortality Risk

Recent research indicates that consuming animal-derived proteins does not elevate the risk of mortality and may even provide slight protective benefits against cancer-related deaths. The study, published in Applied Physiology, Nutrition, and Metabolism, analyzed data from nearly 16,000 adults aged 19 and older using the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES III). Researchers assessed individual dietary patterns, specifically the intake of animal and plant proteins, and their association with death from heart disease, cancer, or other causes.

Contrary to common assumptions, higher consumption of animal protein was not linked to an increased risk of death. Interestingly, the data revealed a modest but significant reduction in cancer-related mortality among those with higher animal protein intake. This finding adds to the growing evidence that animal proteins can be part of a healthy diet.

The study's lead, Professor Stuart Phillips of McMaster University, emphasizes the importance of rigorous methods in diet analysis. Using advanced statistical techniques such as the National Cancer Institute (NCI) method and multivariate Markov Chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) modeling, the team aimed to minimize measurement errors and accurately estimate long-term dietary habits.

Their comprehensive analysis showed no significant association between total protein intake, whether from animal or plant sources, and deaths from any cause, including cardiovascular disease and cancer. When both types of proteins were analyzed together, results remained consistent, suggesting minimal impact of plant protein on cancer mortality and a potential small protective effect from animal protein.

While observational studies like this do not establish causation, they provide valuable insights into health-related patterns in large populations. When combined with clinical trial data, these findings support the inclusion of animal proteins in balanced diets.

Overall, evidence suggests that both animal and plant protein sources can contribute positively to health and longevity. This study helps clarify misconceptions around dietary protein and highlights that moderate intake of animal protein is not detrimental to long-term health.

Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-08-animal-protein-linked-higher-mortality.html