HealthLink: New evidence suggests some people with diabetes may benefit from higher protein diets
Recent short-term research indicates that protein stimulates insulin release and that replacing some carbohydrate in the diet with protein can improve weight control, conserve muscle protein, stabilize blood sugar levels and improve overall glucose control in some people with type 2 diabetes. Evidence on the possible benefits of higher protein intakes was reviewed in an interactive Webcast seminar organized by the Canadian Diabetes Association and the Beef Information Centre. This issue of HealthLink highlights the findings presented November 14th, 2005. The archived Webcast is still available for viewing. See link below.
Dr. Stuart Phillips, Associate Professor of Kinesiology and Medicine at McMaster University in Hamilton, Ontario outlined the metabolic advantages of higher protein intakes. A recent short term study has demonstrated the benefits of diets containing closer to 30% of calories from high quality protein, such as animal proteins in lean meat, eggs, dairy products and fish. Furthermore, in light of recent studies, some nutrition researchers no longer believe that higher protein intakes contribute to kidney disease, bone loss or heart disease in people with diabetes. Higher protein intakes can fit within the Acceptable Macronutrient Distribution Range of 10 to 35% of calories from protein recommended by the Dietary Reference Intake report.
According to Barbara Allan, a Certified Diabetes Educator and Registered Dietitian at the Surrey Memorial Hospital Diabetes Centre in British Columbia, this new evidence means we can offer more meal planning options to people with diabetes. The Canadian Diabetes Association, Beyond the Basics menu planning guide can be used with a range of protein intakes and for teaching about heart healthy protein choices. Higher protein diets can be as low in fat and cholesterol as traditional diabetic meal plans that emphasize carbohydrate foods. While the data on the benefits of higher protein intakes appear to be quite promising long-term studies are warranted.
CONSUMER TIPS:
Balanced diets with higher protein intakes from lean meat, eggs, milk products and fish may benefit people with diabetes. Aim for a healthy variety of foods from all four food groups in Canada's Food Guide to Healthy Eating.
HealthLink is an e-mail newsletter from the team of registered dietitians at the Beef Information Centre: a non-profit organization committed to provide credible and timely information. Please share it with colleagues.
WANT TO LEARN MORE? View the scientific evidence presented in the
November 14th Webcast.
Nutrition Perspective: Protein - Can higher intakes benefit health?
The National Academies Press, Washington, 2002.
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