Lose that belly boys, eat red meat: scientific study

Stan Beer
Thursday, 06 December 2007 01:41

Science - Health

A new study conducted by Australia's Commonwealth Science and Industrial Research Organization has found that overweight and obese men can strip inches off their waist-line and lose weight effectively and safely on a high protein red meat diet. In fact, a balanced red meat diet was found to be better for tightening the belt buckle than a balanced carb diet.

Presenting the results of the study today at the Nutrition Society Conference in Auckland, NZ, CSIRO dietitian Dr Manny Noakes said that the study suggests it is easier than previously thought for men to take action to lose weight.

The study compared a diet high in protein, red meat and fibre with one high in carbohydrate and fibre, finding that both diets led to similar weight losses, but the high protein diet was more effective at reducing abdominal fat levels.

"Abdominal fat is a key risk factor for men for a range of diseases including colorectal and other cancers," Dr Noakes said.

"The results also show that a range of indicators of bowel, kidney and bone health showed no difference between the high protein diet and the high carbohydrate diet.

"For weight loss, red meat and other protein sources should be eaten as part of a balanced eating plan."

The findings of the study back-up the long held contention of male and female body builders that high protein and low carb diets are best for keeping excess body fat to a minimum.

The study was initiated by CSIRO as part of the Preventative Health National Research Flagship and partly financially supported by Meat and Livestock Australia. Over 100 overweight and obese men participated in the study.

National Research Flagships. www.csiro.au/flagships CSIRO initiated the National Research Flagships to provide science-based solutions in response to Australia's major research challenges and opportunities. The nine Flagships form multidisciplinary teams with industry and the research community to deliver impact and benefits for Australia.