Increasing life expectancy
Replacing just one serving of red meat per day with plant-based protein-rich foods like beans and whole grains can help reduce the risk of premature death.
Beans are rich in protein, iron and zinc, which are good for overall health.
Balancing blood sugar
Plant protein sources help control blood sugar and lower blood sugar after meals.
In particular, beans contain anthocyanidin, which helps lower blood sugar by preventing enzymes from breaking down sugar. Beans are also rich in fiber, which helps regulate blood sugar and cholesterol levels.
Fight inflammation
Plant protein sources such as soybeans, lentils, and quinoa are rich in antioxidants such as vitamins C, E, and beta carotene. These nutrients help protect cells from damage and reduce inflammation - factors that help improve health and prolong life.
Plant protein also contains other powerful compounds such as flavonoids and polyphenols, which help support heart health, reduce inflammation and help prevent age-related diseases such as Alzheimer's disease.
By supporting immune function, plant proteins play an important role in prolonging life and overall health.
Preventing muscle loss
As we age, we become less active and lose muscle naturally. Along with endurance training, increasing protein intake can help slow down this muscle loss process.
Soybeans, lentils and pumpkin seeds are all sources of leucine - an important amino acid that stimulates protein synthesis for muscles.