High Protein Consumption May Cause Sudden Stroke

Researchers from the University of Pittsburgh found that consuming protein at high levels may activate cells that block arteries with plaques, disrupting blood flow and increasing the risk of a sudden stroke. This discovery comes amid the growing popularity of protein-rich diets associated with specific exercise instructions. The research team revealed that once protein is consumed, it is broken down in the body into amino acids used to repair torn muscle fibers and help grow new fibers. However, if a person does not exercise, unused proteins will be expelled from the body through the kidneys and excreted in urine. The researchers noted an increase in the activity of a type of white blood cell responsible for clearing cellular debris (macrophages) when breaking down high levels of protein, which leads to the accumulation of these cells within the walls of blood vessels and the formation of plaques over time. The research findings showed that high protein consumption caused an increase in a specific amino acid called leucine, along with a slight increase in a substance that activates the immune system. In a separate part of the study, researchers provided a high-protein diet to mice and tested their blood, finding a significant rise in leucine levels and in the substance that activates white blood cells. Study supervisor and cardiologist, Babak Razani, warned that "excessive" protein consumption is not a "magical solution" for a good diet. He suggested following a "balanced" diet that includes adequate carbohydrates, fats, and essential nutrients.