If the current chronic diseases (cancer, obesity, heart disease) are due to the Western diet, can their reduction and reversal be facilitated by some other kind of diet? Research says yes. Plant-based proteins are higher in non-essential amino acids. Amino acids provide many services that include, but are not limited to regulating the concentration of glucose in the blood stream by either raising or lowering it. No one can argue against the importance of protein. The debate, in fact, is centered on the source of the protein. Produce contains protein and a plant-based, vegan, diet provides what is need PLUS it protects against certain cancers, lowers cholesterol levels, enables healthy weight management, effectively treats auto immune disorders, and more. Animal protein, on the other hand, has proven to be a major contributor of these diseases. Protein is important, but what matters most is the source.
McCarty MF. Vegan proteins may reduce risk of cancer, obesity, and cardiovascular disease by promoting increased glucagon activity. Med Hypotheses. 1999 Dec;53(6):459-85. PubMed PMID: 10687887. – http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/10687887
