Protein-Rich Diets Affect Gut Health and Body Composition, Study Reveals
Advertisement
New research has shed light on the effects of protein-rich diets on the gut microbiome and overall health. Despite the increasing protein intake, especially among athletes and individuals with obesity, the fate of undigested protein and its impact on human health remains largely unknown.
A new study, presented at ASM Microbe, explored how excess undigested protein in the colon can be fermented to produce beneficial metabolites, such as short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), or lead to the production of harmful metabolites like ammonia and sulfides, which are linked to gastrointestinal disorders and other health issues.
The research team conducted experiments on mice, finding that switching to a protein-rich diet led to significant weight loss, reduced body fat, and immediate changes in the gut microbiome.
The study compared different protein diets, revealing that mice consuming aromatic amino acid-rich proteins experienced the greatest weight and fat mass loss. In a 4-week experiment with 16 mice, the team fed them a standard diet for 2 weeks, followed by protein-rich diets enriched with either branched-chain or aromatic amino acids for 2 weeks.
Our comments section is governed by our Comments Policy . By posting comments at Medical Dialogues you automatically agree with our Comments Policy , Terms And Conditions and Privacy Policy .
Disclaimer: This website is primarily for healthcare professionals. The content here does not replace medical advice and should not be used as medical, diagnostic, endorsement, treatment, or prescription advice. Medical science evolves rapidly, and we strive to keep our information current. If you find any discrepancies, please contact us at corrections@medicaldialogues.in. Read our Correction Policy here. Nothing here should be used as a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. We do not endorse any healthcare advice that contradicts a physician's guidance. Use of this site is subject to our Terms of Use, Privacy Policy, and Advertisement Policy. For more details, read our Full Disclaimer here.
NOTE: Join us in combating medical misinformation. If you encounter a questionable health, medical, or medical education claim, email us at factcheck@medicaldialogues.in for evaluation.