Protein-Rich Meals Benefit Weight Loss

Protein-rich meals promote greater energy expenditure than carbohydrate-rich meals of equal calorie content, according to a new study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition.

Researchers at the Nestlé Research Center compared the effects of various protein sources on energy metabolism, satiety and glucose control in humans. The study included 23 healthy adults who consumed three meals of equal calorie content consisting of 50% protein from whey, casein, and soy protein, respectively (with 40% carbohydrate and 10% fat), and a fourth, high-carbohydrate (95% carbohydrate) meal. Researchers measured the energy expenditure, thermic effect, glycemic response, and appetite sensations before and after the four different meals.

Results showed that the protein-rich meals led to a greater energy expenditure and thermic effect than the high-carbohydrate meal. The researchers also found the effects of whey were significantly greater than those of casein and soy and were accompanied by a trend for greater fat oxidation. All three proteins (in the presence of glucose) significantly lowered peak glycemia after the meal. Casein and soy protein lowered glycemia with little, if any, increase in insulin secretion above that of the glucose component of the meal.

“Our study confirmed that protein-rich meals promote greater energy expenditure than carbohydrate-rich meals of equal calorie content," said Kevin Acheson, Nestlé scientist and lead author. “These findings strengthen the evidence that increased protein content in the diet promotes weight control. Different protein sources could be used for personalized nutrition needs."

Sources:

* Nestlé: Are all proteins alike? Nestlé researchers seek answers