Page 55 - The Skinny On Your Diet Plan

• we’re injured or sick, or are recovering from surgery;

• we’re older (because we digest protein less well, so we need
more to meet requirements); and/or

• we’re losing protein for some other reason (e.g., chronic physical

stress).

We may need more protein if we’re trying to lose weight, which can put
us in a negative energy balance. Protein helps keep us feeling full longer.

While most people will do best with slightly more protein, some may have
health conditions that require a lower-protein diet.

These can include:

• kidney disease/ liver disease

• certain metabolic diseases

• problems with gastric emptying

• homocystinuria

Unless there’s a specific medical reason for a low protein intake,

most people will benefit from eating relatively more protein. Currently,
recommendations for optimal protein intake for building and maintaining

muscle range from 0.73-1.0 g/lb (1.6-2.2 g/kg) per day, though some

suggest that people losing body fat while maintaining lean mass should
shoot for a little more 1.04-1.5 g/lb (2.3-3.3 g/kg) per day. Unfortunately,

there are no current recommendations for optimal protein intake for
pregnant or breastfeeding women.

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