April 2011

PRESS RELEASE

Vegetable proteins help to combat overweight  

Vegetable proteins may play an important role in combating overweight and obesity. This was the conclusion reached by researchers based on a Belgian survey of dietary consumption among more than 3000 people.

A recent Belgian study, published in the British Journal of Nutrition, looked at the link between vegetable and animal proteins and overweight and obesity. The study showed that those men with the highest animal protein intake were more likely to become overweight than those with a low intake of animal protein. The probability of being overweight was lower, however, in both men and women with a high vegetable protein intake. The results of this study indicate that vegetable proteins may have a role in combating overweight and obesity.

A total of 3083 individuals took part in the Belgian survey of dietary consumption, and their dietary habits and levels of overweight were recorded. The main focus was on protein intake and on sources of protein.

Average total protein intake was 72g per day, with the largest proportion (47 g/d) coming from animal sources. After cheese and milk products, meat and meat products are the largest source of animal proteins. Meat and meat products are responsible for 34% of total protein intake (26 g/d). Vegetable proteins (25 g/d) mainly come from cereal products.

Protein intake is higher for men than for women, and protein intake falls with increasing age for both men and women. People aged over 75 have a much lower total protein intake (63 g/day).

Overweight and obesity are a problem throughout the world. Being overweight carries a significant risk of developing chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes.

Source: Lin Y, Bolca S, Vandevijvere S, Plant and animal protein intake and its association with overweight and obesity among the Belgian population, British Journal of Nutrition (2011), 105, 1106–1116

*  *