When 17 men who've been vegan for at least a year ate a diet with 0.8 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight for 5 days, their bodies lost protein, as shown by negative nitrogen balance numbers.
Scientific Claim
In 17 minimally active male vegans with at least one year of vegan diet adherence, a 5-day controlled diet providing 0.8 g/kg/d protein resulted in a mean absolute nitrogen balance of -1.38 g/d and relative balance of -18.60 mg/kg/d, both significantly below zero (p < 0.001).
Original Statement
“Both the mean absolute nitrogen balance (−1.38 ± 1.22 g/d) and the mean relative nitrogen balance (−18.60 ± 16.96 mg/kg/d) were significantly lower than zero (equilibrium) (p < 0.001).”
Evidence Quality Assessment
Claim Status
appropriately stated
Study Design Support
Design supports claim
Appropriate Language Strength
association
Can only show association/correlation
Assessment Explanation
The study design (single-group observational) supports descriptive claims about observed results. The language accurately reflects the measured data without implying causation.
Evidence from Studies
Supporting (1)
Nitrogen Balance at the Recommended Dietary Allowance for Protein in Minimally Active Male Vegans