Increased protein intake during the recovery phase after severe burns increases body weight gain and muscle function

We determined the effect of protein intake on weight gain and muscle function in the recovery phase after severe burns. Fifteen patients with deep burns between 30% to 50% of total body surface were studied over a 3 week period-after resolution of the hypermetabolic, catabolic state. All patients were studied in an acute rehabilitation hospital affiliated with the burn center. Nutritional profiles; weight gain; and muscle strength, measured by a physical therapy index (0 to 10)--10 being the greatest progress-were measured. All patients were provided a high-calorie, high-protein diet. Group 1 patients (n=8) also were provided a standard nutrient supplement to maintain caloric intake at 30 to 35 kcal/kg/day and to maintain protein intake at 1.3 to 1.5 g/kg/day. Group 2 patients (n=7) were provided a high-calorie, high-protein diet plus a protein hydrolysate (70 g/day) that provided a protein intake of 1.7 to 2 g/kg/day. Group 1 patients averaged a 1 to 1.5 pound weight gain per week or four pounds during three weeks. Their physical therapy index at three weeks of 4+/-0.5 indicated adequate improvement in strength and endurance. Group 2 patients averaged 2.5 to 3 pounds weight gain per week or 8.5 pounds during three weeks. Their physical therapy index of 7+/-0.7 indicated marked gains in muscle strength. Both measurements were significantly higher than those of Group 1. We conclude that increased protein intake by means of adding a protein hydrolysate increases the rate of restoration of body weight and muscle function.