Comments on: Not All Protein Is Equal: A Doctor Explains Why You Should Choose Plant Protein Over Animal Protein for Better Heart Health and Longevity

By: Ina Kielley

Ina Kielley — Tue, 17 Feb 2026 15:07:40 +0000

In reply to Alma.

We (here at Food Revolution Network) promote a whole-food, plant-based dietary pattern centered on vegetables, fruits, legumes, whole grains, nuts, and seeds. We do not promote the consumption of animal products, as the preponderance of scientific evidence supports plant-based nutrition for heart health, longevity, and the prevention of many chronic diseases. So, we would not recommend chicken as a healthy protein option. –Ina, Food Revolution Network Team

By: Ina Kielley

Ina Kielley — Tue, 17 Feb 2026 15:05:38 +0000

In reply to Alma.

Hello Alma! I’m so glad that article sparked a shift in how you’re thinking about protein — that’s wonderful to hear. And yes, lentils are an excellent protein to add to your diet.

Lentils are rich in plant protein (about 18 grams per cooked cup), but what makes them especially powerful for heart health is that they also come packaged with fiber, antioxidants, potassium, and phytonutrients — all of which support cardiovascular health. Unlike many animal protein sources, lentils contain no cholesterol and virtually no saturated fat. The fiber in lentils has been shown to help lower LDL (“bad”) cholesterol and improve blood sugar stability, both of which are important for long-term heart protection.

They’re also incredibly versatile — you can add them to soups, salads, grain bowls, pasta sauces, or even use them in place of ground meat in many recipes. Pairing lentils with whole grains (like brown rice or quinoa) provides a full complement of amino acids, though simply eating a varied plant-based diet throughout the day accomplishes this naturally.

I hope this helps answer your question! –Ina, Food Revolution Network Team

By: Mark Wiener

Mark Wiener — Sun, 15 Feb 2026 03:23:44 +0000

Originally I adhered to Dr. Esselstyn’s idea of no nuts. This article helped me to consider adding certain nuts and seeds. My research indicates among the best nuts are black walnuts which purportedly have urologic and immune benefits in addition to vascular considerations. For seeds it seems among the best are ground flax seeds, hemp seeds and raw pepitas. I continue to wonder about the occasional sardines (wild caught and packed in water) and wild caught salmon. There are some that think 5-9% total calories from these animal sources is not harmful and for SOME people, may be beneficial. I have also noticed that most preventive nutritional advice has been aimed at the elderly when it would seem critically important that it be aimed at young parents who have huge influence over what their children eat. It would seem the underpinnings of most chronic disease begins at conception! I am presently 78 and angiography indicates nearly all my coronary arteries are about 50% clogged. The good thing is that since I started eating almost only plants 6 years ago, none of them have gotten worse EXCEPT a saphenous bypass graft I received in 2003 which had to be abandoned and thank Goodness, a skilled surgeon was able to seal off the graft and re-open a native artery that had been bypassed for 23 years! Waiting until one is ill to begin prevention is NOT a good strategy. Again, health begins with healthy nutrition for parents before conception and children thereafter.

By: Alma

Alma — Fri, 13 Feb 2026 06:14:23 +0000

Is chiken meat also considered bad protein?

By: Alma

Alma — Fri, 13 Feb 2026 06:09:38 +0000

1) Yes, the way I think about plant proteín vs. animal proteín changed after reading this article and inspired me to change how much animal protein I eat.
Are lentils good protein to add to my diet?