The Effects of High Protein Diets on Thermogenesis, Satiety and Weight Loss: A Critical Review

Abstract

For years, proponents of some fad diets have claimed that higher amounts of protein facilitate weight loss. Only in recent years have studies begun to examine the effects of high protein diets on energy expenditure, subsequent energy intake and weight loss as compared to lower protein diets. In this study, we conducted a systematic review of randomized investigations on the effects of high protein diets on dietary thermogenesis, satiety, body weight and fat loss. There is convincing evidence that a higher protein intake increases thermogenesis and satiety compared to diets of lower protein content. The weight of evidence also suggests that high protein meals lead to a reduced subsequent energy intake. Some evidence suggests that diets higher in protein result in an increased weight loss and fat loss as compared to diets lower in protein, but findings have not been consistent. In dietary practice, it may be beneficial to partially replace refined carbohydrate with protein sources that are low in saturated fat. Although recent evidence supports potential benefit, rigorous longer-term studies are needed to investigate the effects of high protein diets on weight loss and weight maintenance.

• high protein diets
• thermogenesis
• satiety
• body weight
• fat loss

Key teaching points:

• Although authors of some fad diets have advocated increasing dietary protein for weight loss, not until recently have studies begun to investigate the effects of high protein diets on weight loss.

• Convincing evidence exists that protein exerts an increased thermic effect when compared to fat and carbohydrate. Evidence is also convincing that higher protein diets increase satiety when compared to lower protein diets.

• Higher protein diets may facilitate weight loss when compared to a lower protein diet in the short term (within 6 months). But long-term data are limited.

• Exchange protein for carbohydrates has been shown to improve blood lipids, and in epidemiologic studies, higher protein diets have been associated with lower blood pressure and reduced risk of coronary heart disease.

• Although the optimal amount and sources of protein cannot be determined at this time, the weight of evidence suggests that in dietary practice, it may be beneficial to partially replace refined carbohydrate with protein sources that are low in saturated fat.

Key teaching points:

• Although authors of some fad diets have advocated increasing dietary protein for weight loss, not until recently have studies begun to investigate the effects of high protein diets on weight loss.

• Convincing evidence exists that protein exerts an increased thermic effect when compared to fat and carbohydrate. Evidence is also convincing that higher protein diets increase satiety when compared to lower protein diets.

• Higher protein diets may facilitate weight loss when compared to a lower protein diet in the short term (within 6 months). But long-term data are limited.

• Exchange protein for carbohydrates has been shown to improve blood lipids, and in epidemiologic studies, higher protein diets have been associated with lower blood pressure and reduced risk of coronary heart disease.

• Although the optimal amount and sources of protein cannot be determined at this time, the weight of evidence suggests that in dietary practice, it may be beneficial to partially replace refined carbohydrate with protein sources that are low in saturated fat.

This research was supported by grant HL60712 from the National Institutes of Health. Dr. Frank Hu is partly supported by the American Heart Association Established Investigator Award. We appreciate helpful comments by Dr. Walter Willett and Dr. Penelope Greene.