Healthcare Professional Newsletter, February 2023

February 15, 2023
Demystifying the Role of Protein in Human Health, Part 1 of 2-Part Protein Education Series
Demystifying the Role of Protein in Human Health, Part 1 of 2-Part Protein Education Series

Protein is a macronutrient essential to every cell in the human body.  Favored by athletes and fitness enthusiasts, dietary protein is commonly idolized for its muscle-building benefits, but these large, complex molecules are critical for maintaining optimal health during growth and aging and controlling specific physiological processes such as growth, development, metabolism, and reproduction.

Research suggests that even though consumers generally have favorable perceptions of protein, their general knowledge about its benefits and dietary sources is relatively low. A 2019 survey by FMCG Gurus collected data from 20,000 consumers about their protein intake, which revealed that while 70% of consumers associate protein with general health and wellness, 51% admit they don’t know how much protein they’ve consumed in the last 24-hours, with 4 in 10 consumers expressing uncertainty about the purpose of protein in the body.1  Healthcare professionals are well-positioned to dispel myths, uncover truths, and provide general education about protein to help consumers make well informed decisions about their dietary intake.  This includes taking important considerations into account such as cultural and other dietary preferences, activity level, age, and any medical conditions that may warrant a limit or increase in protein needs.

Physiological Roles and Functions of Protein

To understand the dietary needs of protein for individuals, it’s important to have a solid grasp on its physiological processes in the body.  Once dietary protein is ingested, hydrochloric acid and enzymes called proteases break it down into smaller chains of amino acids, also known as the building blocks of protein.  These amino acid chains eventually move from the stomach into the small intestine where the majority of protein digestion and absorption takes place.  The small intestine is lined with cells called enterocytes which have fingerlike structures called microvilli.  The amino acids and other peptides ultimately get absorbed through the enterocytes where peptides are further broken down into amino acids and move into the bloodstream.  There, amino acids are used by cells to build other vital proteins and macro molecules, such as DNA.  While there are 20 AAs, the body can only make 11 of them, leaving the remaining 9 to be referred to as “essential” AAs, which can only be consumed through the diet.  The 9 essential AAs include histidine, isoleucine, leucine, lysine, methionine, phenylalanine, threonine, tryptophan, and valine. The body requires a specific combination of essential amino acids, obtained from foods, daily for internal functions such as to build and rebuild tissue and hormone regulation.2 For example, specific AAs, including methionine, are associated with the regulation of aging and metabolism.  Muscles, organs, bones, skin, and many of the hormones in the body are also made from protein.

Protein performs essential functions throughout the body including the initiation and acceleration of chemical reactions, synthesizing and repairing DNA, transporting materials across cells, receiving and sending chemical signals, responding to stimuli and providing structural support.3  A towering body of research has also suggested protein to be effective for body-weight management as it promotes satiety, and enhancement of body composition as it decreases fat mass while preserving fat-free mass in both low calorie and standard calorie diets.4

Protein – How Much Is Enough?

Daily protein requirements are based on the current U.S. recommended dietary allowance (RDA) of 0.8 grams (g) per kilogram (kg) body weight per day.  This is based on data for healthy individuals and considers the amount of protein needed to compensate for the daily loss of nitrogen, which is a fundamental component of amino acids. With this in mind, nitrogen inputs and losses can be used to study protein metabolism.5  However, multiple factors can impact an individual’s protein needs including type and level of physical activity, age, inflammation or other medical conditions which may warrant an increase or decrease in protein, and amount of fat-free mass which comprises of muscle, fluid, organs and bones.6

The 2020-2025 Dietary Guidelines for Americans (DGA), which provides recommendations on the RDA for the intake of nutrients and guidance on what to eat and drink to meet those needs,  states that the average person get between 10 and 35 percent of their total calories from protein. Beyond this, there’s relatively little solid information on the ideal amount of protein in the diet or the healthiest target for calories contributed by protein.  Some studies suggest that the amount of 0.8g/kg may not be sufficient for older adults, defined as age 65+, who typically need 1.0-1.5g/kg/day, which can induce improvements in glycemic control and muscle mass.  In fact, studies suggest that higher protein intake, upwards of 1.0-1.5g/kg/day in older adults may result in favorable metabolic changes, and induce beneficial outcomes on glycemic markers due to factors such as satiety and lower post-prandial blood glucose.7 According to the PROT-AGE Study Group, to help older adults gain and regain lean body mass and function, the protein amount of 1.0-1.2g/kg/day is advised; and those engaging in endurance and resistance exercise; and/or have acute or chronic conditions,  may benefit from a protein intake exceeding 1.2g/kg/day.8 However, individuals with kidney dysfunction (not on dialysis) typically need to limit protein intake.  Athletes typically require higher amounts of protein, as well, due to increased physical activity.  See the chart below for a general overview of daily nutritional goals for ages 2 to 50+ per the DGA.

Daily Nutritional Goals, Ages 2 and Older

Dietary Guidelines 2020-2025

a AI = Adequate Intake, CDRR = Chronic Disease Risk Reduction Level, DGA = Dietary Guidelines for Americans, 2020-2025 , RDA = Recommended Dietary Allowance. 

Sources: Institute of Medicine. Dietary Reference Intakes: The Essential Guide to Nutrient Requirements. Washington, DC: The National Academies Press; 2006. Institute of Medicine. Dietary Reference Intakes for Calcium and Vitamin D. Washington, DC: The National Academies Press; 2011. National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine. Dietary Reference Intakes for Sodium and Potassium. Washington, DC: The National Academies Press; 2019.

Unlike other macronutrients, fat and carbohydrates, the body does not store protein, which is why it’s important to consume adequate amounts daily.  Emerging research suggests that spreading protein intake throughout the day and more evenly with each meal and snack, can help the body to use protein more efficiently and further stimulate muscle synthesis.9  One rule of thumb is to have a protein food with each meal and snack, accompanying other foods such as whole grains, fruit, vegetables, and healthy fats.  Research suggests that a high protein breakfast, containing 30% protein, may improve blood sugar control and insulin levels, supports weight loss by increasing muscle mass, increases satiety hormones, and reduces the desire to snack later at night.10

Dietary Protein Sources: What Every Healthcare Professional Should Know

Protein is a vital part of the diet, with sources including, but not limited to, eggs, meat, seafood, legumes, nuts, and seeds.  Animal-based protein sources, such as meat and eggs, are best known as complete protein sources, but there are many complete vegan and vegetarian sources of protein including, but not limited to, tempeh, buckwheat, quinoa, edamame, chia seeds, hemp seeds, tofu, pea protein, amaranth and spirulina.  For a convenient option of high-quality plant-based protein, Orgain, offers protein powders and ready-to-drink shakes that provide a complete source of protein.  

With the world accelerating toward sustainable approaches to eating, there has been a shift in demand for alternative protein sources.  According to a survey conducted by the University of Minnesota’s College of Food, Agricultural and Natural Resource Sciences (CFANS), 80 percent of U.S. adult consumers today prefer animal-based protein, but plant protein is quickly gaining popularity with 31 percent of consumers saying they will eat more plant protein over the next five years.11  While this shift toward plant protein is positive, it’s important for healthcare professionals to educate consumers on the different types of plant protein sources and that not all are created equal. For example, highly processed plant protein products may include other ingredients that raise the total sodium and fat content.  With this said, understanding how to read and interpret nutrition labels is important.

Last, but not least, it’s important to note that millions of people worldwide, especially young children, don’t get enough protein due to food insecurity. The effects of protein deficiency and malnutrition range in severity from growth failure and loss of muscle mass to decreased immunity and weakening of the heart and respiratory system.  For those experiencing food insecurity, healthcare professionals can suggest low-cost protein sources, including bulk options whenever possible, including chicken breast, canned tuna and beans, lentils, oats, brown rice, whole wheat bread and eggs.

Learn More with Orgain

With a product portfolio spanning nutrient-rich protein bars to powders and ready-to-drink shakes, Orgain offers a wide range of high-quality plant-based and dairy-based protein products to help meet protein needs for adults and children.  Orgain products, except for its Collagen Peptides and Keto Collagen powders, offer a complete source of protein as they contain all 9 essential amino acids.

From pea protein to collagen, learn about the different types of protein powder options and their benefits in our science-based brief from January 20, 2021, Powering Up With Protein Powder.

  1. Hughes, M. (2019, August 15). Do not overestimate consumer awareness about protein. New Food Magazine. Retrieved January 30, 2023, from https://www.newfoodmagazine.com/article/90862/not-overestimate-consumer-awareness-protein/
  2. Kitada, M., Ogura, Y., Monno, I., & Koya, D. (2019, May). The impact of dietary protein intake on longevity and Metabolic Health. EBioMedicine. Retrieved January 30, 2023, from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6562018/
  3. Sudhakararao, G., priyadarsini, K. A., Kiran, G., Karunakar, P., & Chegu, K. (2019). Physiological role of proteins and their functions in human body. International Journal of Pharma Research and Health Sciences, 7(1), 2874–78. https://doi.org/10.21276/ijprhs.2019.01.02
  4. Moon, J., & Koh, G. (2020, September 30). Clinical evidence and mechanisms of high-protein diet-induced weight loss. Journal of obesity & metabolic syndrome. Retrieved January 30, 2023, from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7539343/
  5. Dickerson, R. N. (2016, April 18). Nitrogen balance and protein requirements for critically ill older patients. Nutrients. Retrieved February 8, 2023, from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4848694/
  6. Dekker, I. M., van Rijssen, N. M., Verreijen, A., Weijs, P. J. M., de Boer, W. B. (E., Terpstra, D., & Kruizenga, H. M. (2022). Calculation of protein requirements; a comparison of calculations based on bodyweight and Fat Free Mass. Clinical Nutrition ESPEN, 48, 378–385. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.clnesp.2022.01.014
  7. Beaudry, K. M., & Devries, M. C. (2019, August 13). Nutritional strategies to combat type 2 diabetes in aging adults: The importance of protein. Frontiers. Retrieved January 30, 2023, from https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fnut.2019.00138/full
  8. Bauer, J., Biolo, G., Cederholm, T., Cesari, M., Cruz-Jentoft, A. J., Morley, J. E., Phillips, S., Sieber, C., Stehle, P., Teta, D., Visvanathan, R., & Volpi, E. (2013). Evidence-based recommendations for optimal dietary protein intake in older people: A position paper from the Prot-Age Study Group. Journal of the American Medical Directors Association, 14(8), 542–559. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jamda.2013.05.021
  9. Schoenfeld, B. J., & Aragon, A. A. (2018, February 27). How much protein can the body use in a single meal for muscle-building? implications for daily protein distribution – journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition. BioMed Central. Retrieved January 30, 2023, from https://jissn.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12970-018-0215-1
  10. Hawley, A. (2018, December 17). Protein, its what’s for breakfast. American Society for Nutrition. Retrieved February 8, 2023, from https://nutrition.org/protein-its-whats-for-breakfast/
  11. Americans pick their proteins: College of food, Agricultural and Natural Resource Sciences. University of Minnesota College of Food, Agricultural and Natural Resource Sciences. (2022, June 15). Retrieved February 2, 2023, from https://cfans.umn.edu/news/americans-pick-their-proteins


The Good Clean Nutrition Podcast – New Episode!

New episodes of The Good Clean Nutrition Podcast are available!

Episode 22 – Eating Well: Nutrition During Cancer Treatment with Cara Anselmo, MS, RDN, CDN

Cara Anselmo, MS, RDN, CDN

The National Cancer Institute estimates that approximately 40% of men and women will be diagnosed with cancer at some point during their lifetime. In this episode of The Good Clean Nutrition Podcast, host Mary Purdy, MS, RDN, is joined by Memorial Sloan Kettering oncology dietitian Cara Anselmo, MS, RDN, CDN to discuss nutrition and lifestyle recommendations for people who have been diagnosed with cancer. Tune in as Cara shares advice for people newly diagnosed with cancer, her top nutrition recommendations, and how to manage different side effects of treatment.

NEW: Orgain Healthcare Ambassador Corner

Last month we launched this new corner of the newsletter to share updates, opportunities, and information exclusively for Orgain Healthcare Ambassadors.  Be sure to request an account now and start reaping the many perks and benefits.  As a member, you’ll be eligible for a feature in our new Ambassador Spotlight below, and receive access to the Orgain Healthcare Ambassador Collective private Facebook group which has over 2,000 members, and have the opportunity to connect directly with the Orgain healthcare team, learn about new products, tools, resources, participate in giveaways, and more!

Ambassador Spotlight

This month, we’re thrilled to recognize Amy Kubal, MS, RDN, LDN, LD, one of our valued Orgain Healthcare Ambassadors.  Amy has been an Orgain Healthcare Ambassador since 2018 and recently recognized as the most active member of the Orgain Healthcare Ambassador Collective private Facebook group where she shares informative posts and often engages with group members.  Thank you, Amy, for all you do as a registered dietitian! Learn more about Amy, and her thoughts on being an ambassador, in a Q&A. 

Also, stay tuned to our March Ambassador Corner to learn how to get featured in our newsletter with the upcoming Orgain Ambassador Spotlight series!

Amy Kubal, MS, RDN, LDN, LD

Learn more about Orgain’s February Healthcare Ambassador feature with Amy Kubal, MS, RDN, LDN, LD, including her professional journey toward becoming a dietitian, and her thoughts on the Orgain Healthcare Ambassador program, and its private Facebook group!

About Amy

Amy Kubal is a Registered Dietitian (RD) with over 18 years of experience. In addition to earning the RD credentials, Amy has a master’s degree in food science and human nutrition.   Her professional experience includes working as a manager in clinical nutrition and food service.  Amy is also the founder of Trend Free RD, where she provides nutrition consulting and speaking services, and works for Summit Food Service, where she plans nutritionally complete and cost-effective meal plans.  She enjoys spending time with her family, doing all things outdoors – biking, hiking, and gardening especially, and helping others maximize their nutrition to look, feel, and perform their best.

Orgain x Amy Kubal – Q&A

1. We would love to hear about your journey toward becoming a healthcare professional and earning the registered dietitian (RD) credentials. Why did you decide to pursue this profession? 

My journey to becoming an RD wasn’t super straight forward. I started college with a major in exercise science and pre-med. My first semester I was taking a “intro to nutrition” course. One day at the end of class, my professor shared that I had received the highest grade in class on the first two exams and asked me what my major was. After I told him, he said I should consider nutrition. During my sophomore year, I changed my major to food science and human nutrition. After I graduated, I immediately entered into a Master of Science /Dietetic Internship combined program and the rest is history!

2. Tell us about what you’re currently working on and anything else you would love for your peers to learn about from you.  

I started my career in food service management in the healthcare field as a clinical nutrition manager (CNM) and have spent most of my time in the management arena – both in healthcare and school nutrition. I’ve also worked for the military as wellness RD and spent five years in private practice. I credit my varied background for providing me with immeasurable experience and have learned more trying new things as an RD than I did in college. I recommend that all new RDs be open to trying things they might think they won’t like. I began my journey thinking I wanted to work in community or clinical nutrition but found that food service management has been my favorite area of work thus far. I also wouldn’t have dreamed of having my current role in food service for the corrections segment, but I love my job!

3. Thank you for being an Orgain Healthcare Ambassador since 2018! What do you enjoy most about the ambassador program? 

I love all things Orgain! I really like having a go-to brand that has a high quality, clean label product fit for everyone. I really like that the Ambassador program provides samples and product information that I can distribute to my clients and use to educate them. This is invaluable in getting their buy-in. Las,t but not least, I LOVE the people! The Facebook group for healthcare ambassadors, the interaction, and the support. The Orgain team is second to none!

4. Being the most active member since its inception, what do you enjoy about being in the Orgain Healthcare Ambassador Collective private Facebook group?

The interaction, ability to easily ask questions, and the opportunity to share with peers is awesome! I also really like being one of the first to know about and to have a say in new resources and Orgain products. I consider the group my Orgain family.

5. Since you personally use and recommend Orgain products, can you share a personal or patient success story using Orgain?  

There are SO many! But one that particularly sticks out is that of an athlete client who was training for a Spartan Ultra race and having a very hard time finding pre- and intra-training fueling sources that she could tolerate and was not recovering from her workouts well. We worked together and switched up her diet around and, in her workouts, relying on Orgain Plant-Based Protein Powder in her pre-workout oatmeal, and intra-workout/race she used a combo of the baked oatmeal bars that included Orgain, and Orgain protein bars. When she was crunched for time, her post-workout meal was an Orgain “super shake” that I created a recipe for. This athlete finished the race in the top 25 women and had NO digestive issues during the race. I credit Orgain for helping make this possible.

6. Do you have a social media handle to share or website where others can connect with you? 

Twitter: @amykrd; Instagram: @thetrendfreeRD; and Facebook: @AmyKubal

NEW Patient Kit Update: Did you know that ambassadors can now send two patient kits, instead of one, to the same patient email address? Now you could offer your patients more Orgain product samples to try before purchasing to support their health and wellness journeys.
Upcoming Orgain-Sponsored Live Webinar

The 2023 Orgain Healthcare Professional Education Webinar Series is officially open for registration with one new webinar each month and can be easily accessed on the Orgain Healthcare App!  Whether on-demand or live, all the webinars in Orgain’s Professional Education Webinar Series are available for 1.0 CPEU for RDNs and NDTRs. Learn More

Here’s what coming up soon:

⇒ Don’t miss the next live webinar tomorrow! February 16 at 2pm EST, Cannabis: Stigma versus Science presented by Janice Newell Bissex, MS, RDN, FAND.  

This webinar will provide a historical perspective on cannabis use, an overview of the components of the plant and the endocannabinoid system, and a review of research on the potential medical benefits of cannabis and CBD. In addition, practice guidelines on the use of cannabis for a variety of conditions, administration methods, dosing, possible side effects and drug interactions, and legal issues will also be discussed.  Register Here

Join us on March 9, 2pm EST for a new webinar, Examining Emerging Nutrition Trends & How These Impact Your Work in Healthcare, presented by Liz Shaw, MS, RDN, CPT

This webinar will cover nutrition trends that are in the spotlight for 2023. An evaluation of trends over the recent years and how they’ve evolved will be analyzed, in addition to a look at how the United States compares to European countries.  Specific ingredients, foods, and diets will be discussed as well as a practical application on how these trends impact healthcare. Register Here

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