Evenness of Dietary Protein Intake Is Positively Associated with Lean Mass and Strength in Healthy Women

• Published in: Nutrition and metabolic insights 2022, Vol.15, p.11786388221101829-11786388221101829
• Main Authors: Johnson, Nathaniel R, Kotarsky, Christopher J, Mahoney, Sean J, Sawyer, Bailee C, Stone, Kara A, Byun, Wonwoo, Hackney, Kyle J, Mitchell, Steven, Stastny, Sherri N
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Endurance; Muscle strength; Original Research; Proteins
• ISSN: 1178-6388; 1178-6388
• DOI: 10.1177/11786388221101829

Background: Evenness of protein intake is associated with increased lean mass, but its relationship with muscle strength and performance is uncertain. Objectives: We determined the association of evenness of protein intake with lean mass, muscle strength and endurance, and functional ability. Design: This was a cross-sectional study. Setting: Data were collected at a research university in the upper midwestern United States. Participants: One hundred ninety-two healthy women, aged 18 to 79 years, mean ± SEM 41.9 ± 1.3, completed the study. Measurements: Dietary intake was assessed using 3-day food diaries verified with food frequency questionnaires. To assess evenness of protein intake, the day was divided into 3 periods: waking to 11:30, 11:31 to 16:30, and after 16:30. Lean mass was measured with dual energy X-ray absorptiometry. Lower-body muscle strength and endurance were determined using isokinetic dynamometry. Upper-body muscle strength was maximal handgrip strength. Functional ability was assessed using 6-m gait speed and 30-second chair stand tests. Accelerometry measured physical activity. Results: Intakes of 25 g or more of protein at 1 or more of the 3 periods was positively associated with lean mass (β ± S.E.; 1.067 ± 0.273 kg, P