Dietary Protein Intake, Health-related Quality of Life and Sleep Quality of Malaysians

Abstract

Introduction: The Malaysian Adult Nutrition Survey and National Health and Morbidity Surveys revealed a significant shift in protein intake with increased meat and seafood consumption. Concomitantly, non-communicable diseases (NCD) increased and were linked to poor health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and sleep quality. Protein intake, particularly from the animal source, is a modifiable nutrition parameter affecting HRQoL and sleep quality. This study investigated the association between different animal proteins, HRQoL and sleep quality in the Malaysian population. Methods: One hundred and fifty Malaysian adults were recruited and subjected to validated questionnaires to assess their protein intake, HRQoL and sleep quality. Additionally, their BMI and waist circumference were measured. Associations between all study parameters were analyzed. Results: There was no statistically significant association between protein intake, BMI, and waist circumference. Increased diet of white meat and seafood was linked to a lower risk of NCDs, improved overall HRQoL, and better sleep quality. Contrastingly, increased red meat consumption was associated with a higher risk of NCDs, poor physical and social function, and worsening sleep quality. Conclusion: The type of animal dietary protein consumed, as well as the frequency with which white and red meat, and seafood are consumed, can all have an effect on HRQoL and sleep quality. More research is needed to evaluate the impact of protein intake levels on HRQoL and sleep quality, including understanding the physiological processes involved. These data will be able to assist health professionals in personalised nutritional and patient management.