Plant protein may be better for older people.

Animal-based protein or plant-based protein?

​A 2025 study published in Nature Communications found that people in their 70s may have much to gain from a diet high in plant-based protein. The study suggests that plant-based protein may help to increase longevity in older adults by reducing their chances of chronic diseases, including Type-2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, coronary artery disease, and dementia. While there is no need to go completely vegetarian or vegan, including more plant-based protein in your diet may be very beneficial to your health.

What is plant-based protein?
Plant-based protein refers to protein that comes from plant sources rather than animals.

Here are some of the best sources of plant-based protein.
These foods help to provide a well-rounded, balanced diet that covers all essential amino acids, fiber, and nutrients.

• Legumes, including lentils, chickpeas, black beans, kidney beans, and navy beans, are high in fiber, iron, and complex carbs
• Soy-Based Foods, including tofu, tempeh, and edamame, provide complete protein that is rich in calcium and iron, and provide nine essential amino acids
• Quinoa is a popular complete protein grain you’ll find in many delicious recipes. Oats, brown rice, barley, and farro are other high-protein grains.
• High-protein nuts and nut butters, including almonds, peanut butter, cashews, walnuts, and pistachios, provide healthy fats and vitamin E.
• Many seeds, such as chia, hemp, flaxseeds, and sunflower seeds, are high-protein, rich in omega-3s and fiber.
• Vegetables like spinach, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, and kale may include smaller amounts of protein, but they also provide essential micronutrients to supplement other plant protein sources.

​Find the plant proteins you enjoy most and look for delicious recipes to include them in your diet.

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Did you know that Visiting Nurse Association of Northern New Jersey (VNA) is the longest-serving VNA in the state of New Jersey? So we know a thing or two about healthy aging and how to successfully “age in place” while avoiding hospitalization and nursing homes. We suggest that you learn more about our home health care services and make a plan to age at home before you have a health emergency.

​Medicare and supplemental insurance often do not cover all the care our patients and caregivers need. If you would like to help, please visit vnannj.org/donate or call the VNA Foundation at 973-451-4148.

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Visiting Nurse Association of Northern New Jersey (VNA) is a leading provider of comprehensive home health care and hospice services in Morris, Hunterdon, Sussex, Warren, Passaic, and Somerset Counties in Northern New Jersey. Established in 1898, generations have known that just one call to VNA opens the door to quality, patient-centered home health care solutions that allow patients to remain in the comfort of their homes with dignity, health, and independence.

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