Protein trend linked to higher cancer risk warns doctors

A social media trend urging higher protein intake for women is linked to cancer risk, according to researchers.

High protein trends raise cancer concerns among health experts

A social media trend encouraging women to double their protein intake has taken off as influencers promote high protein diets. Market data show launches claiming high protein nearly doubled between 2016 and 2020, and a surge of products now carry added protein labels. UK guidelines suggest adults should aim for about 0.75 g of protein per kilogram of body weight, which works out to roughly 54 g a day for a 72 kg woman. Practical sources include a 150 g chicken breast (about 36 g), an egg (6 g), Greek yogurt (170–200 g can provide up to 20 g), and kidney beans (7–10 g). Some influencers push as much as 130–150 g daily, claiming it helps prevent bone fractures and muscle loss.

Nutritionists warn that this message is misleading. They note that menopause increases osteoporosis risk but does not justify a higher protein target. Research cited by experts links high intakes of animal protein in mid-life to cancer risk, and a 2014 University of Southern California study found that high-protein diets were associated with higher risks of cancer, diabetes and mortality when protein accounted for about twenty percent of calories. Dr Federica Amati argues that protein needs change with age but that the peak occurs in infancy and childhood, not menopause, and that aging bodies do not automatically improve with more protein. The piece stresses a balanced approach that emphasizes plant-based sources and fiber while respecting official guidelines.

Highlights

Nutrition science evolves, and so should daily eating patterns.