A low-protein diet with an optimal level of the amino acid methionine, following the Mediterranean principle, helps reduce fat mass, improve metabolism, and alleviate signs of aging—even without calorie restriction. A corresponding study by researchers from three reputable American universities has been published in the journal Cell Metabolism.
The authors of the work tested the so-called LDMM diet on elderly mice aged 20 months. The animals received more food than the control group, yet they lost fat mass and showed fewer signs of aging. They also had elevated levels of the hormones GLP-1 and FGF21, which are linked to metabolism and longevity.
Methionine is an essential amino acid abundant in meat, fish, and eggs. A deficiency of it in the diet led to weakness and bone fragility; while an excess completely neutralized the protective effect of the diet. What mattered was not the total amount of protein, but its amino acid composition.
The authors also analyzed data from over 200,000 people. It turned out that lower consumption of animal protein was associated with a twofold lower incidence of obesity and type 2 diabetes. However, a fully plant-based diet also carries its own risks if methionine is insufficient. In other words, a balanced diet is key.
About the Author
