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Is there a body protein reserve?
The Proceedings of the Nutrition Society
|September 1, 1982
Summary
The body can tolerate significant protein loss, up to 25% of total protein, without fatal outcomes. Muscle protein serves as a reserve to protect vital organ proteins during depletion.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Human Physiology
- Nutritional Science
Background:
- The body possesses protein reserves that are mobilized during periods of inadequate protein synthesis.
- Understanding the limits of protein depletion and the role of protein stores is crucial for clinical nutrition.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the extent of total body protein loss compatible with survival.
- To examine the utilization of muscle protein in protecting visceral proteins.
- To assess the implications for nutritional management in various populations.
Main Methods:
- Experimental protein depletion in dogs and adult human volunteers.
- Observation of body composition changes in obese adults.
- Clinical experience with malnourished children.
Main Results:
- Up to 20-25% of total body protein can be lost without fatality.
- Muscle protein is preferentially catabolized to preserve visceral proteins.
- Obese adults can lose 15% of body protein with substantial fat loss without adverse effects.
- Rapid protein repletion is not therapeutically beneficial in malnourished children.
Conclusions:
- The body has a significant capacity to withstand protein loss, utilizing muscle as a protective reservoir.
- Nutritional interventions should consider the body's natural protein mobilization mechanisms rather than solely focusing on rapid intravenous amino acid administration.