Perceived importance of dietary protein to prevent weight gain: A national survey among midlife women

Objective: Evaluate reported use of the practice of " eating more protein" to prevent weight gain among midlife women. Design: Cross-sectional national survey. Participants: One thousand eight hundred twenty-four midlife women (40-60 y) from the 9 United States geographic regions, primarily married (71%), white (76%), and well educated; half were premenopausal (49%). Outcomes: Frequency of dietary practices to prevent weight gain, Weight Efficacy Lifestyle score, self-reported weight change and body mass index over the past 2 years, and current protein intake. Analysis: Linear regression models determined associations between weight change, protein intake, and reported use of the practice of " eating more protein" to prevent weight gain. Results: Most women correctly identified good protein sources, and the majority could indicate the daily percent dietary energy recommended from protein. " Eating more protein" to prevent weight gain was reported by 43% of women as a practice to prevent weight gain and was associated with weight loss over a 2-year period and with increased percent energy from protein. Conclusions and Implications: Reported use of the practice of " eating more protein" was associated with weight loss over 2 years. Education regarding dietary protein requirements may enhance the use of this practice.