Protein Consumption and the Elderly: What Is the Optimal Level of Intake?
Research snapshot:
2016 review study finds higher protein intake essential for maintaining muscle health in the elderly.
2016 |
Review |
Protein |
Muscle health |
Overview.
The study investigates the optimal protein intake for elderly adults to maintain muscle health and prevent age-related muscle loss, concluding that higher protein intake is beneficial.
Background.
A team of researchers associated with the University of Arkansas and the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, including Jamie I. Baum, Il-Young Kim, and Robert R. Wolfe, published this study in the journal Nutrients.
Objectives.
The objectives of the study were to determine the optimal level of protein intake for elderly adults, understand how protein affects muscle health, and identify the benefits of increased protein consumption in older populations. The researchers aimed to present current evidence related to dietary protein intake and muscle health in elderly adults.
Study design.
The study is a review of existing research on protein intake and muscle health in elderly adults. It includes data from epidemiological and short-term studies, comparing various levels of protein consumption and their effects on muscle synthesis and overall health.
Results.
The study found that elderly adults require higher levels of protein intake compared to younger adults to stimulate muscle protein synthesis effectively. It was observed that protein intake between 1.2 and 2.0 g/kg/day or higher is beneficial for maintaining muscle mass and function. The researchers also noted that the quality of protein, particularly the presence of essential amino acids, is crucial for muscle health.
Conclusions.
The study concludes that higher protein intake, especially of high-quality proteins with essential amino acids, is necessary for elderly adults to maintain muscle mass and function. This level of intake can help prevent sarcopenia and improve overall health outcomes.
Original paper.
Baum, J.I.; Kim, I.-Y.; Wolfe, R.R. Protein Consumption and the Elderly: What Is the Optimal Level of Intake? Nutrients 2016, 8, 359; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu8060359
Read the original
