How to Help Clients Lose Weight But Not Muscle Mass

The TLDR: 

• This 6-week study examined if high protein intake could help 12 resistance-trained athletes on a 25% calorie deficit diet preserve muscle and physical performance.
• Higher protein intake (up to ~2.2g/kg) offered no significant advantage over lower intakes (~1.2g/kg) for retaining fat-free mass, losing fat, or maintaining performance. All groups successfully reduced fat mass and increased upper body strength.
•  The findings suggest that the standard ACSM protein recommendation of 1.2-1.7g/kg is sufficient for dieting athletes who are resistance training. The study also noted that the athletes' metabolisms slowed more than expected, irrespective of protein consumption.

If you like what you see here, check out our board-approved continuing education courses for PTs. We cover topics like:

- Nutrition interventions for chronic diseases (e.g., obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular diseases)

- Advanced nutritional strategies to support physical therapy for patients with metabolic disorders

- Case studies demonstrating successful integration of nutrition into physical therapy care plans

Each physical therapy CEU course emphasizes practical, evidence-based learning, ensuring that participants can immediately apply the skills to their clinical practice. Sign up today and save!

Transcript: