Protein-packed foods and supplements have become increasingly popular, but new research suggests that consuming more protein may not necessarily be better when it comes to healthy aging.
Protein is an important part of a healthy diet as the essential macronutrient, which is made up of various amino acids, helps build and repair muscles, support the immune system, and produce hormones and enzymes, among many other functions.
Researchers also identified several amino acids found in proteins, including methionine, isoleucine, and valine, that may trigger growth-related biological processes linked to obesity, inflammation, and other age-related diseases.
Researchers noted that some groups, including pregnant women and some older adults, may have higher protein needs. However, the review suggests that for many adults who are not very physically active, consuming protein above the recommended amounts may not provide any additional benefits.
"It's absolutely crystal clear that there are benefits of protein to muscle growth and exercise response of active individuals," said Dudley Lamming, the paper’s co-author and a professor of medicine at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. "But because most people are relatively sedentary, many people are likely consuming more protein than they actually need, which probably has negative health consequences."
It's always best to consult with a primary care physician before making any diet changes. Lamming said overall protein needs should be considered alongside a person's activity level.
"Recent recommendations have encouraged people to eat more protein, but they've also encouraged people to exercise more," Lamming said. "We probably need to personalize protein recommendations based not just on age, but also on how physically active people are."