Why protein matters for body recovery after a long illness

Recovering from an illness requires the body to repair tissues, maintain muscle, and regain strength, a process that becomes harder when a person's appetite drops.

Medical Advice

Dr Saurabh Juneja, Director and Head of Department for CTVS in Cardiac Sciences at ISIC Multispeciality Hospital, confirms that getting enough protein supports recovery by providing building blocks for tissues, muscle strength, and the immune system. During illness, people often eat less while the body breaks down muscle, particularly during prolonged infections or hospital stays. Fever, infection, and inflammation increase the breakdown of body proteins, creating a state where the body loses muscle faster than it rebuilds it.

Recovery Needs

Protein is only one part of recovery, as adequate calories, fluids, sleep, treatment, and gradual physical activity are also important. Protein needs vary based on illness severity, duration, and overall health. Older adults, people who lose weight or muscle unintentionally, those with poor appetite, and people recovering from serious illness often have inadequate protein intake. Healthy adults commonly use 0.8 grams per kilogram of body weight daily as a basic reference, but older adults with illness may need 1.2 to 1.5 grams per kilogram daily, while people with severe illness or malnutrition may need different amounts under medical supervision. Increasing protein is not better for everyone, particularly people with kidney disease or certain medical conditions.

Food Choices

When appetite is low, smaller and more frequent meals help manage intake. Simple protein options include eggs, milk, curd, yoghurt, paneer, dal, beans, soy, fish, chicken, and lean meats, while vegetarian diets can combine dal, beans, soy, dairy, and grains to improve overall protein intake. If eating remains difficult, a doctor or dietitian can advise on nutritional supplements.

Context

Nutritional science shows that adequate protein intake combined with overall calorie balance plays a vital role in preventing muscle wasting during periods of physical stress and enforced bed rest. Medical professionals routinely tailor dietary recommendations to individual health status to ensure safe and effective recovery outcomes.