A study published in the journal Nutrients claims that reducing protein intake may help control metabolic syndrome and some of its main symptoms, including obesity, diabetes, and hypertension.

The term "metabolic syndrome" refers to a group of diseases, including hypertension, high blood sugar, extra body fat around the waist, and abnormal cholesterol levels, that increase the risk of diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and stroke.

21 volunteers with metabolic syndrome participated in the study and their diet was monitored for 27-days. Each volunteer′s daily calorie intake was calculated based on their initial metabolic rate. The first group consumed 50% carbohydrates, 20% protein, and 30% fat, but with 25% fewer calories. The second group had a 10% reduction in protein intake. The number of calories consumed by each participant was adjusted based on their unique baseline energy usage. 4 g of salt was taken daily by both groups.

The outcomes demonstrated improved metabolic syndrome symptoms and weight loss in both the protein restriction and calorie restriction groups due to a reduction in body fat. In terms of decreased blood sugar, weight loss, controlled blood pressure, and lower levels of triglycerides and cholesterol, both groups′ outcomes were comparable. An increase in insulin sensitivity was observed in both diets after therapy.

Thus, the study showed that limiting protein can lower body fat while preserving muscle mass. The researchers stated that the diets used were customized despite the positive findings of their experiments. (Hindustan Times, Sep 21, 2022)

https://www.hindustantimes.com/lifestyle/health/protein-restriction-may-be-useful-in-reducing-obesity-diabetes-study-101663746486972.html