Low Protein Intake Is Associated with a Major Reduction in IGF-1, Cancer, and Overall Mortality in the 65 and Younger but Not Older Population

http://www.cell.com/cell-metabolism/abstract/S1550-4131%2814%2900062-X

Highlights (from the study)

• High protein intake is linked to increased cancer, diabetes, and overall mortality
• High IGF-1 levels increased the relationship between mortality and high protein
• Higher protein consumption may be protective for older adults
• Plant-derived proteins are associated with lower mortality than animal-derived proteins

Relevant talking points

• Observational studies can’t prove anything
  • Correlation is not causation
  • Food recall surveys are unreliable
• Sensational headlines are sexy
• Statistics are hard
• What is that supposed to mean?

Analysis

• Protein is as dangerous as smoking?