Recovering from an illness encompasses more than just eliminating an infection or experiencing relief from symptoms. It involves the body’s need to heal tissues, sustain muscle mass, and gradually restore strength. This process can be particularly challenging following an extended illness or hospital stay, especially when a person’s appetite has diminished.
To understand the role of protein in recovery, we consulted Dr. Saurabh Juneja, Director and Head of the Cardiac Sciences Department at ISIC Multispeciality Hospital.
DISCLAIMER: The information in this article is derived from public sources and insights from experts. Always seek advice from your healthcare provider before initiating any new health regimen.
Dr. Juneja affirms that sufficient protein intake can indeed aid recovery following an illness. Protein serves as the essential building material for tissue repair, muscle maintenance, and immune system support.
“During an illness, individuals often consume less food while their bodies may be breaking down muscle tissue, especially during long-term infections or hospitalizations,” he explains. Adequate protein intake can mitigate muscle loss and foster a return to strength and physical capability.
Nonetheless, Dr. Juneja emphasizes that protein is just one component of the recovery process. “While protein is important, factors such as caloric intake, hydration, sleep, appropriate medical treatment, and gradual physical activity are equally vital.”
He further elaborates that conditions like fever, infections, and inflammation can accelerate the degradation of bodily proteins, particularly muscle proteins. Concurrently, a decrease in appetite can hinder the ability to replenish these losses through diet. “This situation may lead to muscle being lost more quickly than it can be rebuilt,” he notes.
Consequently, protein needs may rise during certain illnesses, with the specific amount depending on the severity and duration of the condition, as well as the individual’s overall health status.
Dr. Juneja highlights that older adults, individuals who have experienced unintentional weight or muscle loss, those with diminished appetite, and patients recovering from severe or prolonged illnesses are at a higher risk of insufficient protein consumption.
Older adults, in particular, are more susceptible to muscle loss during periods of inactivity or illness. Similarly, individuals who have been hospitalized for extended periods or who have suffered serious infections may experience significant muscle weakness.
“In these scenarios, ensuring adequate protein intake is crucial; however, the specific amount should be tailored to each person’s nutritional status, the nature of their illness, and any medical conditions they may have,” Dr. Juneja advises.
There is no universal protein requirement for all individuals recovering from an illness. For many healthy adults, a common baseline is about 0.8 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight daily, but this requirement may increase during illness.
“For older adults dealing with health issues, a suggested intake of around 1.2 to 1.5 grams per kilogram per day is often recommended, while individuals with severe health challenges or malnutrition may require adjusted amounts under medical guidance,” Dr. Juneja adds.
However, simply increasing protein intake is not universally beneficial, particularly for those with kidney issues or certain other health conditions.
When appetite is low, “smaller, more frequent meals” can be more manageable than larger servings. Simple, protein-rich foods include eggs, milk, yogurt, paneer, lentils, beans, soy products, fish, chicken, and other lean meats. Incorporating milk or yogurt into smoothies or soft foods can also enhance protein intake without significantly increasing meal size.
For individuals adhering to a vegetarian diet, combining lentils, beans, soy, dairy, and grains can effectively boost overall protein consumption.
If eating continues to pose challenges, seeking professional guidance may be beneficial. “A healthcare provider or dietitian can assist in determining whether nutritional supplements are necessary,” Dr. Juneja concludes.
DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from public sources and expert consultations. Always consult your healthcare provider before implementing any new health practices.
