Weight-loss & macronutrient diets
High-protein diet
Increases the proportion of energy from protein, commonly 25-35%, usually to improve fullness and preserve muscle during weight loss.
What people typically eat
Lean meat, fish, eggs, dairy, tofu, beans and lentils at every meal, with moderate carbohydrates and fats.
What is restricted
Not inherently restrictive; carbohydrate or fat is usually reduced to make room.
Why people try it
Satiety, muscle retention while dieting, and support for resistance training.
Realistic advantages
- Protein is the most satiating macronutrient, hunger management improves
- Helps preserve lean mass during weight loss, especially combined with strength training
- Straightforward to apply to ordinary meals
Realistic disadvantages
- High-meat versions can raise saturated fat and displace fibre
- Excess protein is simply expensive calories beyond useful levels
- Unsuitable at high levels for people with kidney disease
Strength of evidence
Moderate evidence
Good evidence for satiety and lean-mass preservation; long-term outcome data are thinner.
Likely cost and difficulty
Moderate-to-high cost; low-to-moderate difficulty.
Nutritional risks
Low for healthy kidneys; constipation if fibre drops; watch saturated fat choices.
Who should avoid it
People with chronic kidney disease should only raise protein under nephrology guidance.
Is professional supervision advisable?
Not required for healthy adults; essential with kidney disease.
References
Written by the Slimr editorial team. How we review diets.
