Protein power

By now, most people know that empty carbs will leave you fat and hungry. A hearty serving of protein, on the other hand, will fill you up and help keep you lean.

So if you want to get slim and stay slim, obviously, more protein is a must.

But here’s something you might not know. Protein also plays a crucial role in recovery from life-threatening illness. And a new analysis suggests that many sick people simply aren’t getting enough of it.

Researchers at Canada’s McGill University recently reviewed the clinical effects of varying protein intakes on adults hospitalized with critical illness. They found strong evidence that daily protein intakes between 2 and 2.5 grams per kilogram of body weight optimize recovery times and outcomes.

To put that in perspective, that’s about 5.5 to 6.5 ounces of protein per day for someone who weighs 170 pounds. Which isn’t a tremendous amount.

Yet, the average intensive care patient only receives half that.

This study was published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. And I really can’t think of a better testament to the vital importance of protein.

So please don’t buy into that age-old myth that vegetarian diets are somehow healthier than an eating plan that features plenty of steak, chicken, fish, and eggs. In other words, a plan like my New Hamptons Health Miracle.

Let’s just say they don’t call it a “miracle” for nothing.

Source:
“Appropriate protein provision in critical illness: a systematic and narrative review,” American Journal of Clinical Nutrition 2012; 96(3): 591-600


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