MDLinxYour Physically Fit Patients May Be Poisoning Themselves with Protein

Protein Supplements: Balancing Benefits and Risks in Patient Care

Recent research sheds new light on protein supplementation, a growing trend among health-conscious consumers. Although protein plays an essential role in nutrition, the ideal daily intake remains debated. The US protein supplement market, valued at $5.83 billion in 2022, is projected to reach $10.8 billion by 2030. This article examines the latest findings on protein intake, its effects on heart health, and the potential risks of overconsumption, providing crucial insights for healthcare providers guiding patient nutrition.

Key Points:

• The US protein supplement market is expanding rapidly, with plant-based proteins showing the fastest growth.
• Research suggests consuming 22% of total calories from protein (60-90 grams daily) may offer optimal benefits without added risk.
• The Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommend 10%-35% of total calories from protein for adults.
• Leucine, an amino acid in protein, can promote macrophage activity to clear plaque from blood vessels, but overconsumption may lead to plaque buildup.
• Most Americans consume sufficient protein but could benefit from increased intake of seafood and legumes.
• Protein supplements can enhance muscle growth when consumed before or after exercise.
• A single dose of 25-30 grams of whey protein per day may be beneficial, while 40 grams could be detrimental to general health.
• Protein supplements can promote satiety and improve glucose control in diabetics.
• Excess protein intake (90 grams or more per day) can exacerbate preexisting kidney problems, particularly from animal-based sources.
• Potential negative effects of high protein supplementation include anger, acne, and harmful gut metabolite production.
• Whole food protein sources like lentils, sardines, edamame, and shrimp are often cheaper and more nutritious than supplements.

Recent studies investigating the impact of pre-sleep protein ingestion suggest that at least 40 g of protein is required to display a robust increase in muscle protein synthesis rates throughout overnight sleep. (Nutrients)

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