Resistance training combined with high protein intake (1.6-2.0 g/kg/day) preserves or increases muscle mass during caloric restriction, whereas high protein intake alone is insufficient without resistance training.

Studies consistently show that certain strategies can support the maintenance or even increase of muscle mass during caloric restriction and fat loss... resistance training proved more effective in preserving muscle mass during weight loss... A study on older women suggests that higher protein intake (≥1.3 g/kg) may provide greater benefits... all groups of women who completed a resistance training (RT) program with varying levels of protein intake also experienced reductions in fat mass.