Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Pea protein has garnered scientific interest for its potential benefits in supporting cardiovascular health, though the evidence remains preliminary and not yet robust. Several studies have investigated the effects of plant-based proteins, including pea protein, on cardiovascular risk factors such as blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and arterial health. Pea protein is naturally low in cholesterol and saturated fat, and rich in arginine, an amino acid that may help relax blood vessels and improve circulation. Some small clinical trials and animal studies suggest that diets incorporating pea protein can modestly reduce blood pressure and LDL cholesterol, likely due to its bioactive peptides and favorable amino acid profile. For example, a 2011 study published in the journal "Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry" found that pea protein hydrolysate supplementation reduced blood pressure in hypertensive rats. Limited human trials have reported similar trends in blood pressure reduction and improved lipid profiles, but sample sizes have been small and study durations short.

Despite these promising findings, the overall quality of evidence is moderate to low, and there are not yet large, long-term clinical trials definitively establishing pea protein as a treatment or preventive agent for cardiovascular disease. Most recommendations for its use are based on extrapolation from broader research on plant-based diets and their cardiovascular benefits. In summary, while there is early scientific validation for pea protein’s potential cardiovascular benefits, the evidence is still emerging and further research is needed to confirm its efficacy and mechanisms.

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