Research Review: Challenging the 1g/lb Protein Prescription
Sep 25, 2024
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Three compelling studies are unpacked, challenging traditional views on protein intake. One research review reveals that resistance-trained men may not benefit significantly from high protein consumption. Another study finds that older adults' muscle mass isn’t as affected by protein timing as once thought. Discussions shift towards the critical role of resistance training, especially during caloric deficits. The podcast empowers listeners to rethink their protein needs and embrace a more practical approach to nutrition.
In resistance-trained individuals, increased protein intake shows no significant improvements in lean mass or strength, challenging common dietary beliefs.
For older adults, while protein supplementation can aid muscle preservation, the dose and timing are less critical than previously thought.
Deep dives
Effects of Protein Intake on Muscle Mass and Strength
Research indicates that increasing protein intake does not significantly enhance muscle mass, strength, or performance in resistance-trained individuals. In a study involving 48 young men, subjects consuming varying protein levels showed no statistical difference in gains, despite all groups improving in lean mass and physical abilities over four months. Acknowledging that higher protein did yield some improvement in peak power during specific tests, the overall findings suggest that simply increasing protein intake may not be necessary for better results. This underscores the notion that more protein does not always equate to better outcomes for muscle development, challenging the common belief that higher protein is essential.
Protein Supplementation in Older Adults
A meta-analysis examining protein supplementation in older adults showed that neither dose, frequency, nor timing of protein intake significantly impacted muscle mass improvements. Despite these variables not being crucial, individuals receiving any level of protein supplementation did experience some gains in muscle mass. Researchers noted that older adults often started with a baseline protein intake above the RDA, suggesting that even modest increases could suffice to support muscle preservation. This raises questions about the necessity for more significant protein doses in older populations, indicating that lower intake levels may still yield positive results.
Maintaining Muscle Mass During Caloric Deficits
Higher protein intake has been demonstrated to help prevent muscle mass loss in individuals who are overweight or obese and undergoing caloric deficits. According to a study analyzing various trials, a protein intake of 1.3 grams per kilogram proved effective in maintaining muscle mass, while going under 0.5 grams per pound increased muscle loss. Nevertheless, the same study revealed that higher protein intake did not result in improved strength or physical performance unless coupled with resistance training. This highlights the importance of not only adequate protein intake but also the necessity of resistance training to sustain overall strength and physical capabilities.
We examine three studies on protein intake: one on resistance-trained men showing no significant impact on lean mass or strength; another on older adults indicating dose and timing don't affect muscle mass; and a third on overweight individuals during caloric deficits, emphasizing resistance training's importance.
00:00 Welcome to the Consistency Project Podcast
01:36 Study 1: Protein Intake in Resistance-Trained Individuals
11:37 Study 2: Protein Supplementation in Older Adults
16:45 Study 3: Protein Intake During Caloric Deficits
The Consistency Project aims to simplify nutrition, health, and well-being by breaking down the concepts and actions we can all take to live fuller, more functional lives.
ABOUT US
📍 EC Synkowski is a Certified Nutrition Specialist® (CNS), a Licensed-Dietitian Nutritionist (LDN), and Certified CrossFit Level 4 Coach (CF-L4). She's the founder of OptimizeMe Nutrition and the creator of the #800gChallenge®. Find her on social media.
📍 Patrick Cummings is a long-time CrossFitter, writer, and podcaster. Find him on social media.