Eating more plant-based protein could help you live a longer life, according to a major international study led by researchers from the University of Sydney.
The study, published in Nature Communications, looked at food supply and health data from 101 countries over nearly 60 years—from 1961 to 2018—and found a clear link between plant protein and longer life expectancy.
The researchers analyzed the types of protein people consumed in different countries and compared that to average life spans.
They also adjusted for population size and economic factors to get a clearer picture.
What they found was that countries where people ate more plant-based proteins—such as lentils, chickpeas, peas, tofu, and nuts—tended to have longer adult life expectancies than those where animal protein, like meat and dairy, made up a bigger part of the diet.
Caitlin Andrews, the lead author of the study, explained that the results were mixed depending on age.
In young children, especially those under five, countries with more animal protein in their diets had lower rates of infant deaths.
But when it came to adults, people tended to live longer in countries where plant proteins made up a larger part of the food supply.
The research included a wide range of countries. For example, countries like the United States, Sweden, and Argentina had diets rich in animal protein, while countries like India, Pakistan, and Indonesia leaned more heavily on plant-based foods.
After adjusting for income and other factors, the team found that plant-protein-rich countries often had better overall health outcomes and longer life spans.
This isn’t the first time plant-based diets have been linked to health and longevity. Other studies have shown that high meat consumption—especially processed meat—is tied to chronic illnesses such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and some cancers.
On the other hand, plant proteins like legumes, whole grains, and nuts are linked to a lower risk of these conditions. In fact, some of the longest-living communities in the world—like those in Okinawa (Japan), Ikaria (Greece), and Loma Linda (California)—follow mostly plant-based diets.
Dr. Alistair Senior, who led the research team, says this study is important as countries begin rethinking their food systems—not just for health, but also for environmental reasons. As the world tries to reduce its carbon footprint, choosing plant-based protein sources could be a win-win: good for the planet and good for your health.
In short, while protein is essential, where it comes from may make a big difference in how long and how well we live.
Source: University of Sydney.
