The American Heart Association on March 31 recommended people primarily derive protein from plant sources, such as beans and nuts, rather than meat.
The organization said in its 2026 dietary guidelines that healthy sources of protein include beans, peas, lentils, and nuts. It said that people should also regularly consume fish and other seafood.
People who want to eat red meat should select lean cuts that are not processed and “limit portion size,” the guidelines stated.
“Dietary patterns higher in plant sources of protein and lower in animal sources of protein are associated with better cardiovascular health,” they added.
“If consuming animal protein, minimize processed meats, and prioritize lean cuts of unprocessed meat, including poultry; and reduce total intake, limit portion size and frequency of consumption.”…