Relationship Between Dietary Protein Intake and Body Composition in Breast Cancer Survivors.

Abstract

PURPOSE: To evaluate the relationship between dietary protein intake and body composition (lean mass (LM), fat mass (FM), bone mineral density) in breast cancer survivors (BCS). METHODS: Thirty-three (59±8 yrs) BCS had body composition measured by DXA. Upper and lower body strength was measured by one repetition maximums on chest press and leg extension machines, and handgrip strength was assessed using a dynamometer. Physical activity was assessed by pedometers. Dietary habits were recorded in a three day food log. Pearson product moment correlations were used to analyze the data. All significance was accepted at p<0.05. RESULTS: The average BMI and steps/day classified the women as overweight (27.6± 5.6 kg/m2) and “low active” (6,286±2,734 steps/day). The BCS consumed on average 1758±517 kcal/day, with 16.4±4.3% protein (1.00±0.32 g/kg/day), 46.0±7.0% carbohydrates, and 38.1±5.0% fat. Average calcium and vitamin D intake (from food and supplements) were 2042±710 mg/day and 1931±1166 IU/day, respectively. Significant correlations were found between protein and % body fat (r=-0.502) and LM:FM ratio (r=0.487). There were no significant relationships with other measurements of body composition, strength or steps/day. CONCLUSIONS: Our findings indicate that greater protein intake may attenuate increases in FM and improve the LM:FM ratio in BCS. Further research and larger samples are needed to elucidate potential benefits of protein on body composition in postmenopausal BCS. Supported by Dymatize Nutrition™ and the National Strength and Conditioning Association.