High-protein diets are everywhere—from fitness influencers to grocery store shelves—but are they really the key to weight loss and better health? In this episode, we dive into the science behind high-protein eating to uncover what’s fact, what’s hype, and what actually works.

You'll learn:

• What protein is and the best sources

• The research behind high-protein diets

• How much protein you really need based on your goals

• Practical tips for adding more quality protein to your diet

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Contact Kaylie or Debbie for more information

kayliewalker@missouri.edu

bennettdl@missouri.edu

Sound Editor: Evan Holley, Nutrition and Health Specialist for MU Extension

References:

Forrest, S. (2024). Weight-loss success depends on eating more protein, fiber while limiting calories, study finds. University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. https://medicine.illinois.edu/news/weight-loss-success-depends-on-eating-more-protein-fiber-while-limiting-calories-study-finds

Giorgi, A. (2025, Apr. 18). Should You Get Your Protein from Whole Foods or Supplements? https://www.verywellhealth.com/protein-supplements-vs-food-11717777

Loyacono, S. (2025). Protein may help boost weight loss and improve overall health. University of Kansas Medical Center. https://www.kumc.edu/about/news/news-archive/protein-benefits.html#:~:text=Eating%20a%20variety%20of%20proteins,variety%20of%20nuts%20and%20beans.

Moon, J., & Koh, G. (2020). Clinical Evidence and Mechanisms of High-Protein Diet-Induced Weight Loss. Journal of obesity & metabolic syndrome, 29(3), 166–173. https://doi.org/10.7570/jomes20028

Phoenix, K. (2025, May 29). How Much Protein Do You Really Need? Experts Reveal the Surprising Amount. https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/health/diet-nutrition/a64853473/how-much-protein-do-we-need/

Restivo, J. (2023, Dec. 1). High-protein foods: The best protein sources to include in a healthy diet. https://www.health.harvard.edu/nutrition/high-protein-foods-the-best-protein-sources-to-include-in-a-healthy-diet

United States Department of Agriculture MyPlate. (2025). Protein Foods. https://www.myplate.gov/eat-healthy/protein-foods

Transcript