Severe cases of protein deficiency, such as those seen in some of the world’s least developed countries (LDCs), can lead to skin deterioration, fatty liver disease, swelling, and more, reports Healthline. Yet a lack of protein doesn’t have to be severe in order for a person to develop health problems. In a 2015 longitudinal study published in the American Journal of Hypertension, researchers set out to determine how protein intake impacted the systolic blood pressure (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) readings of more than 1,300 adults and their subsequent risk for developing high blood pressure. None of the participants had any evidence of high blood pressure, heart issues, or diabetes at the start of the study.
The research findings showed that men and women who got their protein from plant and/or animal sources saw drops in both systolic and diastolic blood pressure measurements. Those who ate the greatest amounts of protein stood at a 40% lower risk of developing high blood pressure in the long run. Risk reduction jumped to 59% when high amounts of protein and fiber were both incorporated into one’s diet. Such findings indicate that those lacking in protein may be more vulnerable to hypertension.