Protein: You probably need more

Key Takeaways

  • Protein is needed for building and repairing body tissues.
  • It supports muscle growth, immune function, and hormone production.
  • Bioavailable sources of protein include red meat, eggs, and seafood.
  • Eating enough protein promotes fullness and supports a healthy metabolism.
  • Protein needs vary based on age, activity level, and health goals.

What is Protein?

Protein is one of the essential macronutrients, made up of amino acids that are necessary for the body’s structure and function. It is involved in building tissues, repairing cells, and producing enzymes and hormones.

Amino acids are the building blocks of protein. The body can produce some amino acids, but others, known as essential amino acids, must come from food.

High-quality sources of protein provide all the essential amino acids in the right amounts.

Functions of Protein

homeostasis

Muscle Growth and Repair

Protein is key for building and repairing muscles, especially after exercise. It supports recovery and helps maintain muscle strength.

Immune System Support

Protein is involved in the production of antibodies that fight off infections. A healthy immune system relies on adequate protein intake.

Hormone and Enzyme Production

Many hormones and enzymes in the body are made from protein. These molecules control the most important processes, including metabolism and digestion.

Energy Source

When needed, the body can use protein as a source of energy, though it primarily relies on fat and carbohydrates.

Types of Protein Sources

types of protein

Bioavailability and Nutritional Density

Animal-based foods are the most bioavailable sources of protein, meaning the body can easily absorb and use the nutrients.

Grass-fed red meat, eggs, and wild-caught seafood are among the most nutrient-dense options.

Animal proteins offer all essential amino acids in one serving, making them highly efficient for meeting the body’s protein needs. They also provide additional nutrients like iron, zinc, and vitamin B12.

Protein Requirements

Daily Recommended Intake

Protein needs vary, but the popular recommended allowance is 0.8 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight. Higher amounts may be beneficial for active individuals or those looking to maintain or build muscle.

Dr. Gabrielle Lyon is a board certified family medicine doctor who focuses on muscle health and aging. She recommends eating about 1 gram of protein per pound of ideal body weight each day. This helps maintain muscle and supports overall health.

Factors Influencing Protein Needs

Factors like age, physical activity, and specific health goals affect how much protein a person needs.

Athletes or those recovering from illness may require more to support tissue repair and recovery.

Signs of Protein Deficiency

Protein deficiency leads to stunted growth, weak muscles, and fatigue. It impairs cognitive development in children and can cause learning difficulties.

The immune system weakens, increasing the risk of infections and illness. Heart problems, high blood pressure, and fluid retention (like swollen legs or abdomen) may develop.

The body struggles to absorb and transport nutrients, worsening other deficiencies, such as vitamin A, iron, and zinc. Anemia, low energy, and pale skin are common symptoms.

Hair becomes brittle, with hair loss and early graying. Emotional issues like anxiety, depression, and irritability often appear.

In severe cases, fertility drops, and pregnancy complications occur. Without enough protein, these issues can become life-threatening, especially in infants and people with chronic illnesses.

Benefits of Adequate Protein Intake

Bone Health

Higher protein intake above the recommended daily allowance (RDA) may help prevent bone loss and reduce the risk of hip fractures.

Older adults in particular may benefit from better bone mineral density and reduced hip fracture risk.

Muscle Maintenance and Growth

Consuming enough protein helps maintain muscle mass and supports muscle growth, especially when combined with strength training.

Enhanced Metabolism and Fat Loss

Protein boosts metabolism by increasing the energy used to digest and process food. It also helps preserve muscle mass during weight loss.

Improved Satiety and Reduced Cravings

Protein makes you feel fuller for longer, which can help reduce cravings and prevent overeating.

Best Practices for Consuming Protein

superfoods

Spacing Protein Intake Throughout the Day

For optimal muscle repair and growth, it’s helpful to distribute protein intake evenly across meals rather than consuming it all at once.

Prioritizing High-Quality, Nutrient-Dense Protein Sources

Choose nutrient-dense protein sources like grass-fed red meat, pasture-raised eggs, and wild-caught fish to maximize nutrition and support overall health.

Adjusting Protein Intake Based on Physical Activity

More active individuals may need to increase protein intake to support muscle recovery and energy needs.

FAQs

How much protein do I need each day?

The recommended amount varies by individual but typically ranges from 0.8 to 1.2 grams per kilogram of body weight, depending on activity level and goals.

Are animal-based proteins better than plant-based proteins?

Animal-based proteins are more bioavailable, meaning the body absorbs and uses them more efficiently. They also provide all essential amino acids in one serving.

Can too much protein be harmful?

For most people, consuming protein within a reasonable range is safe. Very high intakes over a prolonged period may need to be monitored, especially for individuals with major kidney issues.

What are bioavailable protein sources?

Bioavailable protein sources include grass-fed red meat, pasture-raised eggs, and wild-caught seafood. These provide the body with all essential amino acids and are easily absorbed.

How can I increase my protein intake without supplements?

You can increase your intake by eating more nutrient-dense animal foods like beef, lamb, eggs, and fish. Adding these foods to each meal can help you meet your protein needs naturally.

Research

Crews EL, Fuge, K., Oscai, L., Holloszy, J. and Shank, R., 1969. Weight, food intake, and body composition: effects of exercise and of protein deficiency. American Journal of Physiology-Legacy Content, [online] 216(2), pp.359–363. https://doi.org/10.1152/ajplegacy.1969.216.2.359.

Cuenca-Sánchez, M., Navas-Carrillo, D. and Orenes-Piñero, E., 2015. Controversies Surrounding High-Protein Diet Intake: Satiating Effect and Kidney and Bone Health. Advances in Nutrition, [online] 6(3), pp.260–266. https://doi.org/10.3945/an.114.007716.

Darling, A. L., Millward, D. J., Torgerson, D. J., Hewitt, C. E., & Lanham-New, S. A. (2009). Dietary protein and bone health: A systematic review and meta-analysis. The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 90(6), 1674-1692. https://doi.org/10.3945/ajcn.2009.27799

Dhillon, J., Craig, B. A., Leidy, H. J., Amankwaah, A. F., Osei-Boadi Anguah, K., Jacobs, A., Jones, B. L., Jones, J. B., Keeler, C. L., Keller, C. E., McCrory, M. A., Rivera, R. L., Slebodnik, M., Mattes, R. D., & Tucker, R. M. (2016). The Effects of Increased Protein Intake on Fullness: A Meta-Analysis and Its Limitations. Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, 116(6), 968-983. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jand.2016.01.003

Edozien, J.C., Khan, M.A.R. and Waslien, C.I., 1976. Human Protein Deficiency: Results of a Nigerian Village Study. The Journal of Nutrition, [online] 106(3), pp.312–328. https://doi.org/10.1093/jn/106.3.312.

Fürst, P. and Stehle, P., 2004. What Are the Essential Elements Needed for the Determination of Amino Acid Requirements in Humans? The Journal of Nutrition, [online] 134(6), pp.1558S-1565S. https://doi.org/10.1093/jn/134.6.1558s.

Groenendijk, I., den Boeft, L., van Loon, L.J.C. and de Groot, L.C.P.G.M., 2019. High Versus low Dietary Protein Intake and Bone Health in Older Adults: a Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Computational and Structural Biotechnology Journal, [online] 17, pp.1101–1112. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.csbj.2019.07.005.

Henley, E.C., Taylor, J.R.N. and Obukosia, S.D., 2010. The Importance of Dietary Protein in Human Health. Advances in Food and Nutrition Research, [online] pp.21–52. https://doi.org/10.1016/s1043-4526(10)60002-2.

Hou, Y. and Wu, G., 2018. Nutritionally Essential Amino Acids. Advances in Nutrition, [online] 9(6), pp.849–851. https://doi.org/10.1093/advances/nmy054.

Hudson, J.L., Wang, Y., Bergia III, R.E. and Campbell, W.W., 2020. Protein Intake Greater than the RDA Differentially Influences Whole-Body Lean Mass Responses to Purposeful Catabolic and Anabolic Stressors: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. Advances in Nutrition, [online] 11(3), pp.548–558. https://doi.org/10.1093/advances/nmz106.

Lopez MJ, Mohiuddin SS. Biochemistry, Essential Amino Acids. [Updated 2024 Apr 30]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2024 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK557845/?report=classic

Lourenco, R. and Camilo, M.E., 2002. Taurine: a conditionally essential amino acid in humans? An overview in health and disease. Nutr Hosp, 17(6), pp.262-270.

Morton, R.W., Murphy, K.T., McKellar, S.R., Schoenfeld, B.J., Henselmans, M., Helms, E., Aragon, A.A., Devries, M.C., Banfield, L., Krieger, J.W. and Phillips, S.M., 2017. A systematic review, meta-analysis and meta-regression of the effect of protein supplementation on resistance training-induced gains in muscle mass and strength in healthy adults. British Journal of Sports Medicine, [online] 52(6), pp.376–384.
https://doi.org/10.1136/bjsports-2017-097608.

Nunes, E. A., Colenso-Semple, L., McKellar, S. R., Yau, T., Ali, M. U., Fitzpatrick-Lewis, D., Sherifali, D., Gaudichon, C., Tomé, D., Atherton, P. J., Robles, M. C., Naranjo-Modad, S., Braun, M., Landi, F., & Phillips, S. M. (2022). Systematic review and meta-analysis of protein intake to support muscle mass and function in healthy adults. Journal of Cachexia, Sarcopenia and Muscle, 13(2), 795-810. https://doi.org/10.1002/jcsm.12922

Phillips, S.M., Chevalier, S. and Leidy, H.J., 2016. Protein “requirements” beyond the RDA: implications for optimizing health. Applied Physiology, Nutrition, and Metabolism, [online] 41(5), pp.565–572.
https://doi.org/10.1139/apnm-2015-0550.

Rebholz, C. M., Friedman, E. E., Powers, L. J., Arroyave, W. D., He, J., & Kelly, T. N. (2012). Dietary Protein Intake and Blood Pressure: A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials. American Journal of Epidemiology, 176(suppl_7), S27-S43. https://doi.org/10.1093/aje/kws245

Shams-White, M. M., Chung, M., Du, M., Fu, Z., Insogna, K. L., Karlsen, M. C., LeBoff, M. S., Shapses, S. A., Sackey, J., Wallace, T. C., & Weaver, C. M. (2017). Dietary protein and bone health: A systematic review and meta-analysis from the National Osteoporosis Foundation,. The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 105(6), 1528-1543. https://doi.org/10.3945/ajcn.116.145110

Santesso, N., Akl, E.A., Bianchi, M., Mente, A., Mustafa, R., Heels-Ansdell, D. and Schünemann, H.J., 2012. Effects of higher- versus lower-protein diets on health outcomes: a systematic review and meta-analysis. European Journal of Clinical Nutrition, [online] 66(7), pp.780–788. https://doi.org/10.1038/ejcn.2012.37.

Sukhatme, P.V. and Margen, S., 1978. Models for protein deficiency. The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, [online] 31(7), pp.1237–1256. https://doi.org/10.1093/ajcn/31.7.1237.

Traylor, D.A., Gorissen, S.H.M. and Phillips, S.M., 2018. Perspective: Protein Requirements and Optimal Intakes in Aging: Are We Ready to Recommend More Than the Recommended Daily Allowance? Advances in Nutrition, [online] 9(3), pp.171–182. https://doi.org/10.1093/advances/nmy003.

Vogtschmidt, Y.D., Raben, A., Faber, I., de Wilde, C., Lovegrove, J.A., Givens, D.I., Pfeiffer, A.F.H. and Soedamah-Muthu, S.S., 2021. Is protein the forgotten ingredient: Effects of higher compared to lower protein diets on cardiometabolic risk factors. A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials. Atherosclerosis, [online] 328, pp.124–135. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.atherosclerosis.2021.05.011.

Wallace, T.C. and Frankenfeld, C.L., 2017. Dietary Protein Intake above the Current RDA and Bone Health: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Journal of the American College of Nutrition, [online] 36(6), pp.481–496. https://doi.org/10.1080/07315724.2017.1322924.

Westerterp-Plantenga, M.S., Lemmens, S.G. and Westerterp, K.R., 2012. Dietary protein – its role in satiety, energetics, weight loss and health. British Journal of Nutrition, [online] 108(S2), pp.S105–S112. https://doi.org/10.1017/s0007114512002589.

Wolfe, R.R., Miller, S.L. and Miller, K.B., 2008. Optimal protein intake in the elderly. Clinical Nutrition, [online] 27(5), pp.675–684.
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.clnu.2008.06.008.

Wolfe, R.R., Cifelli, A.M., Kostas, G. and Kim, I.-Y., 2017. Optimizing Protein Intake in Adults: Interpretation and Application of the Recommended Dietary Allowance Compared with the Acceptable Macronutrient Distribution Range. Advances in Nutrition, [online] 8(2), pp.266–275. https://doi.org/10.3945/an.116.013821.

Wu, G., 2013. Functional amino acids in nutrition and health. Amino Acids, [online] 45(3), pp.407–411. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00726-013-1500-6.

Wu, G., 2016. Dietary protein intake and human health. Food & Function, [online] 7(3), pp.1251–1265. https://doi.org/10.1039/c5fo01530h.

Wu, G., 2010. Functional Amino Acids in Growth, Reproduction, and Health. Advances in Nutrition, [online] 1(1), pp.31–37. https://doi.org/10.3945/an.110.1008.

Spread the love

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Scroll to Top