Plant proteins for human health: the current status and future needs

Area of Science:

• Nutritional Science
• Biochemistry
• Physiology

Background:

• Growing recognition of plant-based diets for health.
• Plant proteins are key components in managing metabolic health and preventing chronic diseases.

Purpose of the Study:

• To comprehensively review the physiological impacts of plant proteins.
• To analyze their role in satiety, weight management, lipid metabolism, gut homeostasis, and disease prevention.

Main Methods:

• Literature review and analysis of physiological mechanisms.
• Examination of plant protein interactions within the food matrix and processing effects.

Main Results:

• Plant proteins modulate appetite hormones, optimize lipid metabolism, and enhance gut microbiota diversity.
• They attenuate pathogenesis of cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and chronic kidney disease via signaling pathways.
• Health benefits are influenced by food matrix interactions (protein, fiber, phytochemicals) and processing.

Conclusions:

• Plant proteins are functional food components crucial for nutritional strategies.
• They play a vital role in mitigating non-communicable diseases through synergistic effects.