JAN 2007
High-Protein Diets Associated With
Increased Cancer Risk
A new study published in
the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found
that high protein intakes are associated with an
increased cancer risk. Washington University
researchers evaluated the relationship between
diet and certain plasma growth factors and
hormones that are linked to cancer. The study's
“low-protein” group, who consumed the
recommended amount of protein from plant sources
(approximately 10 percent of calories), had
significantly lower blood levels of IGF-1
(hormone substances associated with
premenopausal breast and prostate cancer) than
two high-protein groups consuming 17 percent of
calories as protein from mostly meat and dairy
products.
Fontana L, Klein S,
Holloszy JO. Long-term low-protein, low-calorie
diet and endurance exercise modulate metabolic
factors associated with cancer risk. Am J Clin
Nutr 2006;84:1456-1462.
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