Body-Weight Fluctuations and the Association Between the Consumption of Protein-Rich Foods and the Incidence of Metabolic Syndrome Among Middle-Aged Women in Korea

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a growing global health concern, driven in part by increasing rates of overweight and obesity. In Korea, MetS incidence escalates particularly among middle-aged women, eventually surpassing that of men. While protein-rich diets have been associated with improved metabolic health, the impact of protein intake on body weight fluctuations (BWFs) and MetS risk has received limited attention, especially in Korean populations. Methods: Using data from the Korean Genome and Epidemiology Study (KoGES), this study examined whether a higher intake of protein-rich foods is linked to smaller BWF and lower MetS incidence in middle-aged Korean women. Dietary intake was assessed through validated questionnaires, and BWF was calculated based on repeated anthropometric measurements over a long-term follow-up. MetS was defined according to established clinical criteria. Results: Preliminary findings indicated that participants who consumed higher amounts of protein-rich foods, particularly animal-based proteins (e.g., fish, low-fat dairy), tended to exhibit smaller BWFs. Additionally, lower BWF was associated with a reduced risk of MetS, suggesting that stable weight regulation may play a protective role against metabolic dysfunction. Potential mechanisms include the preservation of lean mass, enhanced energy expenditure, and reduced carbohydrate intake when protein consumption is increased. These findings highlight the importance of dietary strategies that optimize protein intake to help minimize BWF and potentially lower MetS risk in middle-aged Korean women. Future research should investigate the specific sources and quality of protein and their long-term effects on metabolic health outcomes in diverse populations.