High-protein diets may lead to bad news for heart health

High-protein diets may lead to bad news for heart health


What’s better than a sizzling ribeye steak or a savory chicken breast? For many Americans, the answer is: not much.

And what do these two delectable dishes have in common? They’re both sources of dense protein, hailed by meat lovers and those looking to build muscle.

But while those pumping iron in the gym may be toning their biceps, they might be neglecting the most important muscle in their body: their heart.

Researchers at Penn State University in a Medical News Today report say foods high in sulfur amino acids, typically protein-packed dishes, may be linked to an increased risk for heart problems.

Protein is made up of amino acid building blocks, but not all aminos contain the heart-troubling culprit, sulfur. That steak or that chicken breast may contain one of two sulfur aminos: methionine (meth-EYE-OH-nin) or cysteine (sy-STEIN). These are what the researchers are correlating with heart defects.

Don’t be mistaken, your body needs these aminos to function. But like all things in the human body, it’s a delicate balance. Too much of these compounds is what spells trouble for one of your body’s most valuable organs.

Scientists at Penn State have taken strides to validate their statements through in-depth research with over 11,000 participants. The found those participants with higher sulfur amino acid levels also had a higher risk for heart disease.

There is good news for anyone inspired to make a change, as high fruit and veggie consumption may decrease one’s sulfur levels.

So while it is not essential that you ditch the BBQ, it may be a good idea to cut back on how often you fire it up.

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