NHLBI IN THE PRESS

High consumption at night of branch chain amino acids found in protein-rich foods could negatively affect the heart

Sources of healthy proteins, including meat, fish, dairy products, nuts, legumes, and grains

A study published in the Journal of Molecular and Cellular Cardiology shows that an increase in the consumption of branch chain amino acids (BCAAs) commonly found in meat, eggs, fish and nuts later in the day could have negative consequences on cardiovascular health.

In mice, the findings suggest that consuming BCAAs in the evening lead to a dramatic growth of the heart, resulting in a 75% increase in heart muscle cells in four hours. The high consumption of BCAAs also worsened heart disease progression. The results, researcher say, could serve as a warning to people with chronic health conditions, such as obesity, diabetes, and heart disease.