Protein intake patterns, health profiles, body composition among US adults by physical activity levels: NHANES 2017–2020

Regular physical activity is known to provide numerous health benefits, including improvements in cardiovascular function, metabolic health, and mental well-being. This study aimed to assess the metabolic, behavioral, and physiological benefits of physical activity in US adults and compare the dietary intake of active versus inactive individuals, with a specific focus on protein consumption. This study used data from 7,910 adults (>18 y) who participated in the 2017–2020 NHANES Pre-Pandemic Survey. As part of the NHANES, height and weight were measured by trained examiners, dietary intake data was collected using 24-hour recall. Data analysis was conducted using SAS 9.4 using procedures to account for the complex survey design of the NHANES. Participants were classified as ‘active’ if they met the CDC guidelines for physical activity (≥150 min exercise/week). Active adults had healthier body composition, including lower body weight, BMI, and body fat percentage, as well as reduced risks for pre-diabetes, hypertension, and hyperlipidemia. In terms of dietary intake, active adults consumed more protein (mean 82 vs. 79 g/day, p = 0.03), had higher fiber intake, and consumed less added sugar. Additionally, protein intake was positively associated with lean body mass and inversely correlated with body fat percentage in active adults. These results highlight the importance of protein in supporting muscle health and suggest that regular physical activity may enhance the benefits of protein on body composition. Further research is needed to investigate the long-term effects of protein intake distribution and its optimal role in exercise recovery and muscle growth.