Should We Prescribe More Protein to Critically Ill Patients?

In the context of critical illness, evidence suggests that exogenous protein/amino acid supplementation has the potential to favorably impact whole-body protein balance. Whether this translates into retention of muscle, greater muscle strength, and improved survival and physical recovery of critically ill patients remains uncertain. The purpose of this brief commentary is to provide an overview of the clinical evidence for and against increasing protein doses and to introduce two new trials that will add considerably to our evolving understanding of protein requirements in the critically ill adult patient.
Competing Interests: Daren K. Heyland has received research grants and speaker honoraria from Abbott Nutrition and Nestlé, neither of which is specifically related to the work published in this paper. Renee Stapleton and Charlene Compher report no conflicts of interest.