More protein won't stop you from regaining weight after dieting

Original Title

Protein supplements after weight loss do not improve weight maintenance compared with recommended dietary protein intake despite beneficial effects on appetite sensation and energy expenditure: a randomized, controlled, double-blinded trial.

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Summary

People who ate extra protein powder after losing weight didn't keep off more weight than those who ate normal protein, even though the protein made them feel less hungry and burned a bit more calories.

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Surprising Findings

Protein increased calorie burn and reduced hunger—but had zero effect on weight or fat mass regain.

Common belief is that higher thermogenesis and appetite suppression should lead to better weight maintenance; this study shows these benefits don’t stack up in real-world outcomes.

Practical Takeaways

Don’t rely on protein shakes to keep weight off after dieting—focus on sustainable eating habits and calorie balance instead.

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