A Western-type diet is a major risk factor for cardiometabolic dysfunction and related diseases (diabetes, heart disease), with high saturated fat, refined carbohydrate, cholesterol, and salt intakes presumably driving the risk. In contrast, dietary protein is considered healthy and is among the recommended dietary components of the Healthy Eating Index. Accordingly, dietary protein has become popular and dietary protein intake continues to increase. However, a series of population studies, mechanistic studies in animal models, and complementary studies in people demonstrate a link between high dietary protein and amino acid intake and cardiometabolic dysfunction. This lecture will focus on the putative deleterious consequences of high protein intake and underlying mechanisms.
