|
April 20, 2025
Animal Protein Intake and Muscle Mass Index
Skeletal muscle loss, known as sarcopenia, is a progressive condition occurring after the age of 30. One possible way to prevent this lean muscle loss is the consumption of adequate protein.
In an observational and cross-sectional study by Aubertin-Leheudre and Adlercreutz, two groups of women - one omnivore and one vegetarian - were compared to determine if the type of protein consumed had any impact on the level of muscle mass.
A total of 40 women participated in the one year study. Four times during the year dietary records, blood and urine samples were collected. Results indicate those who consumed animal protein had significantly more muscle mass and a greater muscle mass index than those who consumed plant protein. In addition, muscle mass index was positively correlated to animal protein intake. Since plant protein intake and the sex hormone-binding globulin are known to influence muscle mass and were significantly different between groups, the analysis was repeated to control for these two variables.
The two groups consumed similar amounts of total protein at levels above the Recommended Dietary Allowance for protein. A possible reason for this difference is the composition of animal protein compared to plant protein. Animal protein is a complete protein and contains higher levels of essential amino acids, such as leucine, methionine, lysine and tryptophan, compared to plant proteins. These amino acids play an important role in muscle synthesis resulting in better overall muscle mass.
It was noted that the vegetarian group may not have been effectively combining high-quality plant proteins to obtain the required essential acids needed for muscle synthesis and/or may require higher protein intakes to maintain muscle mass.
For Your Practice
Including animal protein sources, such as lean beef, pork, fish, poultry, and eggs, may be beneficial in preventing the loss of muscle mass. For those who prefer a vegetarian diet, higher levels than current requirements of plant proteins and consumed in the right combinations to obtain more essential amino acids may be needed to obtain the positive effects on muscle mass seen with animal protein.
Want to Learn More?
Aubertin-Leheudre M, Adlercreutz H. Relationship between animal protein intake and muscle mass index in healthy women. Br J Nutr 2009; 102:1803-1810.
NEW! Listen to Dr. Paddon-Jones discuss protein and sarcopenia. Click
here.
|