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Beef Protein Research & Evidence

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This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Statements about dietary supplements have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Individual results may vary — consult your healthcare provider before starting any supplement. Full disclaimer

Evidence Level

Moderate

Beef protein is an emerging supplement supported by clinical studies. Sharp et al. (2015) conducted a randomized controlled trial comparing beef protein isolate to whey protein isolate in resistance-trained men over 8 weeks and found no significant differences in body composition or strength outcomes. Naclerio & Larumbe-Zabala (2016) reviewed protein supplementation broadly, confirming that animal-derived protein sources, including beef, effectively support lean mass gains when combined with resistance training.

Valenzuela et al. (2019) conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials, concluding that beef protein supplementation may improve body composition and exercise performance in certain populations. In a study involving male elite triathletes, Valenzuela et al. (2021) found that daily supplementation with beef protein significantly increased thigh muscle mass compared to carbohydrates.

Overall, beef protein appears to be an effective supplement for supporting muscle growth and performance, with evidence suggesting comparable efficacy to whey protein. Further research is needed to explore its long-term effects and interactions with other dietary components.

Evidence by Condition

ConditionStudied DoseEvidence
Muscle building1-2 scoops (25-50g protein) post-workoutModerate
Meal replacement1 scoop with healthy fats and carbsModerate
Daily protein target1-3 scoops throughout the day to meet protein goalsModerate
See which Beef Protein products match the research
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Full Beef Protein Guide

References

  1. RCTSharp MH, Lowery RP, Shields KA, et al. (2015). The effects of beef protein isolate and whey protein isolate supplementation on lean mass and strength in resistance trained individuals. Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition.
  2. Naclerio F, Larumbe-Zabala E (2016). Effects of Whey Protein Alone or as Part of a Multi-ingredient Formulation on Strength, Fat-Free Mass, or Lean Body Mass in Resistance-Trained Individuals: A Meta-analysis. Sports Medicine. DOI PubMed
  3. Meta-analysisValenzuela PL, Mata F, Morales JS, Castillo-García A, et al. (2019). Does Beef Protein Supplementation Improve Body Composition and Exercise Performance? A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials.. Nutrients. DOI PubMed
  4. Albracht-Schulte K, Islam T, Johnson P, Moustaid-Moussa N (2021). Systematic Review of Beef Protein Effects on Gut Microbiota: Implications for Health.. Advances in nutrition (Bethesda, Md.). DOI PubMed
  5. RCTValenzuela PL, Montalvo Z, Mata F, González M, et al. (2021). Effects of Beef Protein Supplementation in Male Elite Triathletes: A Randomized, Controlled, Double-Blind, Cross-Over Study.. Journal of the American College of Nutrition. DOI PubMed
  6. Naclerio F, Larumbe-Zabala E, Seijo M, Ashrafi N, et al. (2019). Effects of Protein Versus Carbohydrate Supplementation on Markers of Immune Response in Master Triathletes: A Randomized Controlled Trial.. Journal of the American College of Nutrition. DOI PubMed
  7. Naclerio F, Larumbe-Zabala E, Ashrafi N, Seijo M, et al. (2017). Effects of protein-carbohydrate supplementation on immunity and resistance training outcomes: a double-blind, randomized, controlled clinical trial.. European journal of applied physiology. DOI PubMed
Show 3 more references
  1. RCTNaclerio F, Seijo M, Larumbe-Zabala E, Ashrafi N, et al. (2017). Effects of Supplementation with Beef or Whey Protein Versus Carbohydrate in Master Triathletes.. Journal of the American College of Nutrition. DOI PubMed
  2. RCTNaclerio F, Seijo M, Larumbe-Zabala E, Earnest CP (2017). Carbohydrates Alone or Mixing With Beef or Whey Protein Promote Similar Training Outcomes in Resistance Training Males: A Double-Blind, Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial.. International journal of sport nutrition and exercise metabolism. DOI PubMed
  3. Blanton C (2013). Improvements in iron status and cognitive function in young women consuming beef or non-beef lunches.. Nutrients. DOI PubMed