PARK RIDGE, Ill., Mar 4, 2009 (UPI via COMTEX) -- A review affirms that the
high-quality protein in eggs makes a valuable contribution to muscle strength,
energy and a sense of fullness, U.S. researchers say.
Researchers reviewed more than 25 protein studies and found that the protein in
eggs contributes to strength, power and energy in the following ways:
-- Sustained energy: The protein in eggs provides steady and sustained energy
because it does not cause a surge in blood sugar or insulin levels, which can
lead to a rebound effect or energy "crash" as levels drop.
-- Muscle strength: Dietary protein intake directly influences muscle mass,
strength and function in people of all ages.
-- Gold-standard protein: The high-quality protein in eggs provides all of the
essential amino acids our bodies need to build and maintain muscle mass and it
is frequently used as the standard for evaluating the protein quality of other
foods.
Review co-author Donald K. Layman, professor emeritus at the University of
Illinois, said one egg provides 13 percent of the recommended daily value of
high-quality protein that helps preserve muscle mass, and helps older adults
prevent muscle loss.
"While many Americans may be getting enough protein, they need to focus on
consuming sources of higher-quality protein," Layman said in a statement.
The review is published in Nutrition Today.
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Copyright 2009 by United Press International