Exploring the Impact of High-Protein Diets on Muscle Mass in Colorectal Cancer Patients Undergoing Chemotherapy
Recent findings from the Protein Recommendation to Increase Muscle (PRIMe) randomized controlled trial offer valuable insights into nutritional interventions for colorectal cancer patients. The study primarily evaluated the feasibility and effects of two protein intake levels—1.0 g/kg/day and 2.0 g/kg/day—on muscle mass (MM) and physical function among patients with stage II-IV colorectal cancer beginning chemotherapy.
Why Muscle Mass Matters in Cancer Treatment
Muscle mass is a crucial factor in the health outcomes of cancer patients. Reduced muscle mass is linked with poorer physical function, a higher risk of treatment-related complications, and a shorter survival span. For colorectal cancer patients, specifically, chemotherapy and the disease itself exacerbate muscle degradation, highlighting the need for effective nutritional strategies to counteract these effects.
Study Design and Dietary Interventions
In this pilot trial, 50 patients were randomly assigned to two dietary protein targets: 1.0 g/kg/day (minimum recommendation) and 2.0 g/kg/day. Each patient received individualized counseling from a registered dietitian to support protein intake goals, with some participants supplementing their diets with protein powders.
Key Findings: Protein Intake and Muscle Preservation
Over 12 weeks, the study observed that:
Feasibility Challenges: Achieving the 2.0 g/kg/day protein target was difficult, with most participants unable to sustain such high intake levels. Average intake in the high-protein group was 1.6 g/kg/day, versus 1.2 g/kg/day in the lower-protein group.
Muscle Mass Maintenance: About 59% of participants in the high-protein group maintained or gained muscle mass, compared to 44% in the lower-protein group, suggesting that higher protein intake may support muscle preservation.
Physical Function Improvements: There was a positive correlation between increased protein intake and enhanced scores in physical function tests, particularly in lower body strength. Each additional 1.0 g/kg/day of protein intake led to modest improvements in function, potentially supporting better mobility and independence.
Conclusions and Clinical Implications
While the study was unable to definitively prove the impact of 2.0 g/kg/day protein intake due to adherence challenges, it did highlight the potential benefits of higher protein consumption in maintaining muscle mass during chemotherapy. For colorectal cancer patients, personalized nutrition plans that emphasize achievable protein goals could play a significant role in improving overall health outcomes.
These findings support the value of dietary interventions in oncology settings and open the door for further research to explore optimal protein levels for muscle maintenance in cancer patients.
Reference
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About Dr. Sourabh Kharait
Dr. Sourabh Kharait (MD / PhD) is Clinical Nephrologist and Medical Director of Clinical Trials at Summit Nephrology Medical Group, and the Founder and CEO of IGH Naturals, a platform company that designs Functional Foods and Nutritional products for athletes and patients with chronic diseases.
