Research
Cellular
Higher protein intakes (2-3 times the protein RDA of 0.8 g/kg/d) during energy restriction can enhance fat-free mass (FFM) preservation.
Athletes should increase protein intake significantly during weight loss to preserve muscle mass.
StrongSupportsmedium confidence
A large body of evidence now shows that higher protein intakes (2-3 times the protein Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) of 0.8 g/kg/d) during periods of energy restriction can enhance fat-free mass (FFM) preservation.
Why this rating
The claim is supported by a large body of evidence.
Source
Considerations for protein intake in managing weight loss in athletes
C. H. Murphy et al. · European Journal of Sport Science · 2014
DOI 10.1080/17461391.2014.936325
otherCited 50×
Read the paper DOI resolved against Crossref · corpus check 2026-06-10
More from this paper
Related findings · Cellular
- A minimum daily protein intake of ≥1.6 g/kg is necessary to observe significant improvements in muscle mass from whey protein supplementation.Strong
- Most athletes ideally need 1.2 to 2.0 grams/kg of body weight/day of protein, preferably split across 3-4 meals.Strong
- Muscle mass can be significantly preserved by integrating resistance training, adequate protein intake, and body composition monitoring into weight-loss treatment programs.Strong
This is one finding among thousands. Every one is graded and traced to its source, so you can see what the evidence actually supports. Browse the research →