Plant-Powered Aging: Unraveling the Truth Behind Protein Diets and the Magic of FGF21
Aug 25, 2023
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Discover the truth behind protein diets and the magic of FGF21 in this episode. Learn how plant-based diets slow aging, explore the impact of animal protein vs plant protein, and the benefits of substituting legumes for red meat. Find out about protein restriction, methionine, and the role of FGF21 in aging.
Following a healthy plant-based diet can slow down the aging process by consuming whole, minimally processed plant foods.
Increasing legume consumption while reducing red meat intake has no negative impact on bone health and challenges the notion that high animal protein intake is necessary for healthy bones.
Deep dives
Plant-Based Diet Slows Aging
A study published in the journal BMC Medicine found that following a healthy plant-based diet can slow down the aging process. The study, which followed almost 13,000 participants over eight years, categorized their dietary patterns into healthy plant-based, unhealthy plant-based, and regular diets. By measuring a marker of aging over the years, researchers observed that those following a healthy plant-based diet showed a slower rate of aging compared to the other groups. This study emphasizes the importance of consuming whole, minimally processed plant foods like fruits, vegetables, legumes, and whole grains to promote healthy aging.
Legumes and Red Meat for Bone Health
Contrary to the common belief that increased animal protein intake is essential for bone health, a study conducted at the University of Helsinki showed that increasing legume consumption while reducing red meat intake had no negative impact on bone health. In the study, participants were divided into two groups: one continued their usual red and processed meat consumption, while the other group substituted legumes for a significant portion of their meat intake. After six weeks, there was no difference in protein intake or markers of bone health between the two groups. These findings challenge the notion that a high intake of animal protein is necessary for maintaining healthy bones and provide evidence for the safety and benefit of incorporating legumes into the diet.
Protein Restriction and Aging
In his book 'How Not to Age,' Michael Greger explores the scientific approach to getting healthier as we get older. One section of the book focuses on the benefits of protein restriction in slowing down the aging process. Studies have shown that reducing protein intake, particularly animal protein, can increase the levels of a hormone called FGF21 (fibroblast growth factor 21) associated with longevity. Exercise, particularly resistance training, also boosts FGF21 levels. Plant-based foods, such as starchy foods, whole grains, legumes, and vegetables, promote the production of butyrate, which increases FGF21. Additionally, dietary protein restriction has been linked to improved insulin sensitivity. These findings suggest that choosing plant-based protein sources and lowering protein intake can be a strategy for promoting healthy aging.
On this episode of Heart Doc VIP with Dr. Joel Kahn, dive deep into the ongoing 'food wars' debate circulating online. With numerous 'experts' promoting animal-based, high-protein diets, how can we distinguish fact from fiction? Dr. Kahn sheds light on recent studies focused on plant-based diets and their influence on the rate of aging. Discover the compelling data that points to the health benefits of plant-centric choices.
Dr. Kahn also unveils the remarkable compound, FGF21, a catalyst for weight loss and numerous health perks. Learn how legumes, exercise, and low-protein diets can elevate your FGF21 levels. Equip yourself with this invaluable information and pave the way for a healthful aging journey on Heart Doc VIP.
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