New research suggests that foods high in protein could be as good for your heart as stopping smoking or getting more exercise.

Researchers at the University of East Anglia found that that people who eat high levels of certain amino acids found in meat and plant-based protein have lower blood pressure and arterial stiffness, The Daily Mail reported.

"This research shows a protective effect of several amino acids on cardiovascular health," Dr. Amy Jennings, lead researcher of the study, said in a statement. "Increasing intake from protein-rich foods such as meat, fish, dairy produce, beans, lentils, broccoli and spinach could be an important and readily achievable way to reduce people's risk of cardiovascular disease."

For the study, researchers examined the effect of seven amino acids on cardiovascular health among nearly 2,000 women with a healthy body mass index (BMI). They studied their diet and compared it to clinical measures of blood pressure and blood vessel thickness and stiffness.

The study found that those who consumed the highest amounts of amino acids had lower measures of blood pressure and arterial stiffness. They also found that the food source was important -- with a higher intake of amino acids from plant-based sources associated with lower blood pressure, and a higher intake from animal sources associated with lower levels of arterial stiffness, The Daily Mail reported.

"The really surprising thing that we found is that amino acid intake has as much of an effect on blood pressure as established lifestyle risk factors such as salt intake, physical activity and alcohol consumption. For arterial stiffness, the association was similar to the magnitude of change previously associated with not smoking," Jennings said.

High blood pressure is one of the most potent risk factors for developing cardiovascular disease. A reduction in blood pressure leads to a reduction in mortality caused by stroke or coronary heart disease.

Jennings suggests that diets that include more meat, fish, dairy produce and pulses could help both prevent and treat the condition. Beneficial amounts equate to a 75g portion of steak, a 100g salmon fillet or a 500ml glass of skimmed milk.

The findings are detailed in the Journal of Nutrition.