In a new study from The Ohio State University, researchers found that half of the adults surveyed living with diabetes did not consume the daily recommended intake of protein.
This is linked to lower diet quality, increased carbohydrate intake, and greater physical limitations.
The findings highlight protein intake as an essential and often overlooked consideration in meeting the nutritional needs of people living with diabetes and its importance in supporting strength and mobility.
Scientists have long studied the impact of sugar consumption in people living with diabetes, but this study shed light on the critical association between low protein intake and diabetes.
Diabetes is linked to a risk for developing low muscle mass, which can lead to falls and other injuries.
That’s why protein consumption—and awareness of the need for it—is critical to maintaining muscle mass and preserving functional mobility, which can help people living with diabetes live stronger overall lives.
In the study, the team examined data from more than 23,000 adults in the U.S.
They found people living with diabetes who did not consume the daily recommendation of protein on the day of intake reported a higher prevalence of physical limitations.
This included difficulty completing basic movements, such as stooping, crouching, kneeling, standing for long periods, and pushing or pulling large objects.
People with diabetes who met protein recommendations had better overall diet quality, more closely meeting dietary recommendations for total daily intake of vegetables, whole grains, dairy and added sugars.
People with diabetes who had low protein intake showed much poorer nutrient density, lower overall diet quality, and consumed 12.5% more carbohydrates, which may negatively impact glucose levels.
This study highlights the importance of the quality of foods in our diet as well as the number of nutrients we need daily—both of which have a significant impact on health and mobility, especially for people living with diabetes.
The team says nutrition education will help people successfully manage a condition like diabetes, emphasizing the need to achieve a well-rounded diet with the right nutrients and avoid foods that are detrimental to optimal health.
Understanding the recommended daily intake requirements for macronutrients like protein, fat and carbohydrates, and more than 25 vitamins and minerals can be complicated.
The National Academy of Medicine developed the Dietary Reference Intakes (DRIs).
The DRIs recommend adults consume 0.36 grams of protein per pound of body mass each day, which means that a person weighing 150 pounds should consume 54 grams of protein per day.
The DRI calculator can help determine individual nutrient needs for overall micro-and macronutrient intakes. Individuals should discuss results with a healthcare professional.
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The study is published in Nutrients. One author of the study is Christopher Taylor, Ph.D. R.D.
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