Animal protein vs. plant protein; which is healthier for us. Humans are carnivores, yet many people have become vegetarian, and avoid many of not all meats. Since we need protein to function, especially as we age, finding a good source of protein is important. Meat eaters are aware that too much meat is not good for us, and can increase our mortality risk. Is plant protein safer? Maybe, according to a recent article in the Cleveland Clinic Journal of Medicine. A recent study in the JAMA (Journal of the American Medical Assn.) (1) suggests that when comparing plant and animal protein, plant protein is somewhat healthier for us and poses a lower likelihood of mortality from consuming it. "The substitution of plant protein for animal protein, especially that from processed red meat, is associated with lower mortality, while high animal protein intake is positively associated with mortality, according to a recent study. This cohort study of US health care professionals included 131,342 participants (64.7% women, 35.3% men, mean age 49 years). Researchers found: "¢ Median protein intake was 14% for animal protein and 4% for plant protein. "¢ Animal protein intake was weakly associated with higher mortality, especially cardiovascular mortality (HR, 1.08 per 10% energy increment). "¢ Conversely, plant protein was associated with lower mortality (HR, 0.90 per 3% energy increment). "¢ These associations were confined to individuals with a least 1 lifestyle risk factor. "¢ Replacing animal protein of various origins with plant protein was associated with lower mortality." Where do we find plant protein? Quinoa is one of the most healthy forms of plant protein available and is grown in Peru. There are quite a number of plants that include protein. I found this web site that lists 10 different protein rich plants including Pumpkin Seeds Asparagus Cauliflower Peanuts Mung Bean Sprouts Almonds Spinach Broccoli Quinoa You can read more about them through the same web site located at http://gentleworld.org/10-protein-packed-plants/ Song M, Fung TT, Hu FB, et al. Association of animal and plant protein intake with all-cause and cause-specific mortality. [Published online ahead of print August 1, 2016]. JAMA Intern Med. doi:10.1001/jamainternmed.2016.4182.