Suppression of insulin secretion by protein deprivation in obesity

1) Protein restricted diets decrease basal plasma insulin levels in obesity. 2) This effect occurs even in the presence of sufficient calories to maintain body weight and while the diet is high in carbohydrate. 3) The decrease in insulin is accompanied by a fall in plasma glucose and in the I/G ratio, suggesting an increase in insulin sensitivity. 4) Excessive protein intake, in addition to carbohydrate, may play a role in the pathogenesis of the hyperinsulinemia and insulin resistance found in obesity.