A growing trend of high-protein diets may be putting women at risk of cancer, according to top doctors. Research suggests that increasing protein intake can increase the risk of cancer, particularly in mid-life.
UK guidelines recommend adults consume about 0.75g of protein per kilogram of body weight, which equates to approximately 54g a day for an average woman. However, some influencers are recommending significantly higher amounts, up to 150g a day, claiming it can help prevent bone fractures and muscle decline in later life.
However, Dr Federica Amati, a nutritionist and scientist behind the diet app ZOE, warns that this approach is misleading. “Going through menopause puts women at higher risk of developing osteoporosis and makes it harder to gain and maintain muscle mass,” she says. “Research shows that high intakes of animal protein in mid-life are associated with cancer.”
Dr Amati advises middle-aged women to aim for 1.2g to 1.4g of protein per kg of body weight, which is more than the NHS guidance but still easily achievable. She also recommends shifting towards plant-based protein sources, such as beans, peas, nuts, seeds, and oats, which help boost fibre intake.
In fact, a 2014 study from the University of Southern California found that a high-protein diet was linked to increased risks of cancer, diabetes, and mortality. Adults with the highest protein intake were four times more likely to die of cancer compared to those on a low-protein diet.
The trend towards high-protein diets is partly driven by social media influencers, who often recommend eating large amounts of protein to “help prevent” bone fractures and muscle decline in later life. However, Dr Amati warns that this approach can be harmful, as it fails to address the underlying issues of osteoporosis and muscle loss.
Instead, she recommends a balanced diet that includes a variety of protein sources, including plant-based options. By making informed choices about their protein intake, women can reduce their risk of cancer and maintain overall health and wellbeing.
Source: https://www.dailymail.co.uk/health/article-14985231/Why-trendy-high-protein-diets-causing-cancer-epidemic-doctors-warn-make-you-four-times-likely-die-early-heres-exact-YOU-need-eat-age.html