Eli5: why do people say to get at least 1g of protein for desired body weight when it comes to losing weight?
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Protein requires more energy to break the chemical bonds, say 20%, so it contributes less energy to maintaining your body’s systems. I’ve actually heard that number for building muscle mass, not dropping weight. However, research has shown that those trying to lose weight who engage in resistance training see increased benefits. The muscles use energy that would be otherwise stored, used for building muscle as well as performing the exercises. Since protein has ~4 cal/gram as opposed to fats (9 cal/gram), increased protein intake will also lead to less calories consumed. For example, eating 3oz of chicken breast vs 3 oz cheese. Both are filling but the caloric content is roughly half. So the 1g protein per pound body weight would be for building muscle with resistance training, leading to more muscle which burns more calories even in a resting state. The number itself seems to come from Ohio State research.
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