A Warning for ALL Gym Bros: Proteins Can Give You a Heart Attack

In this episode, we break down groundbreaking research—published in Nature Metabolism in February 2024—that uncovers how ultra-high protein diets (over 22% of your daily calories) may speed up atherosclerosis and boost heart attack risk. The key player? Leucine, an amino acid abundant in animal proteins like meat, eggs, and dairy, which turns on mTOR signaling in macrophages—accelerating arterial plaque buildup.

Whether you're a science buff, a fitness enthusiast, or a “gym bro” chasing gains with extra protein (especially leucine), this episode gets real about what “high protein” really means—for your muscles and your heart.

Keywords: protein heart risk, leucine atherosclerosis, high-protein diet dangers, mTOR cardiovascular, protein intake gym, plant vs animal protein heart health, Nature Metabolism protein study

Tune in to make sure your protein-packed lifestyle is also heart-smart.