Mediterranean diet: Older adults have more of two protective microproteins
USC researchers found higher levels of humanin and SHMOOSE in the blood of older people who more closely follow a Mediterranean diet. The study is small and shows a link, not proof.
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Older people who more closely follow the Mediterranean diet have higher blood levels of two small proteins linked to protecting the heart and brain, according to a study by the University of Southern California (USC) Leonard Davis School of Gerontology published in the journal Frontiers in Nutrition. ScienceDaily reported the findings on Oct. 24.
The proteins are humanin and SHMOOSE, microproteins produced in mitochondria, the "power plants" of cells. Earlier research has linked humanin to insulin sensitivity, heart health and the protection of cognitive function. In the new study, higher intake of olive oil, fish and legumes was associated with more humanin, while olive oil and fewer refined carbohydrates were associated with more SHMOOSE. Participants who adhered more closely to the diet also had lower markers of oxidative stress.
"These microproteins may act as molecular messengers that translate what we eat into how our cells function and age," said lead author Roberto Vicinanza. The authors stress that the study is relatively small and observational: it shows an association but does not prove that diet directly raises protein levels or that the proteins protect against cardiovascular disease. Further research is planned.
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