Longevity: Eating Less Protein Linked to Healthy Aging in New Studies

Recent research shows that eating less protein may slow the aging process. d3sign · Moment/Getty New research suggests reducing protein intake may support healthy aging and longevity. Protein restriction may improve metabolism, reduce inflammation, and reduce cellular damage. Protein needs vary by age, activity level, and overall health, so reducing protein intake may not be appropriate for everyone. New research suggests eating less protein — particularly certain amino acids — may support healthier aging and longevity. A new review, published July 31 in Cell Press Blue, analyzed more than 350 laboratory and animal studies and found that reducing protein intake may improve metabolism while reducing inflammation and cellular damage. The potential benefits, however, may depend on factors such as age, activity level, and overall health. “It’s absolutely crystal clear that there are benefits of protein to muscle growth and exercise response of active individuals,” Dudley Lamming, PhD, one of the review’s authors, said in a press release. “But because most people are relatively sedentary, many people are likely consuming more protein than they actually need, which probably …