Story perspectives

Study: Plant Proteins Slash Cholesterol, More Research Needed

10/11/2025

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Summary

Story summary

A meta-analysis of 36 clinical trials found that replacing red meat with plant proteins lowers total cholesterol by 0.14 mmol/L and LDL cholesterol by 0.19 mmol/L.
The study, published in Clinical Nutrition, notes that mixing animal and plant proteins slightly raises triglycerides.
Because the studies were short, the evidence quality is low and long-term research is needed, while nutrition experts recommend more plant proteins such as beans and nuts.

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Story summary

A meta-analysis of 36 clinical trials found that replacing red meat with plant proteins lowers total cholesterol by 0.14 mmol/L and LDL cholesterol by 0.19 mmol/L.
The study, published in Clinical Nutrition, notes that mixing animal and plant proteins slightly raises triglycerides.
Because the studies were short, the evidence quality is low and long-term research is needed, while nutrition experts recommend more plant proteins such as beans and nuts.