Protein-Rich Diet Good for Older Adults

Starting the day off with a high-protein breakfast helps maintain muscle mass, curb hunger, reduce abdominal fat, and prevent and slow the progression of age-related bone and muscle loss, according to new research presented during a panel presentation at the 2010 IFT Annual Meeting and Food Expo®. The findings suggest a protein-rich diet may lower health costs and improve mobility and independence in older adults.

Humans have the ability to build muscle at any age; however, the effects of insufficient protein increase substantially in older adults, often leading to muscle and bone conditions such as sarcopenia (the degenerative loss of muscle mass) and osteoporosis, said Douglas Paddon-Jones, Ph.D., associate professor, physical therapy and internal medicine, the University of Texas Medical Branch.

Protein makes up about 50 percent of bone volume and 33 percent of our body mass, said dietician and sports nutritionist Marie Spano. “Higher protein diets (optimally, between 25 and 30 grams of protein per meal) are associated with greater bone mass and fewer fractures when calcium intake is adequate,” she said.

Replacing carbohydrates with protein also can prevent obesity and obesity-related conditions such as type 2 diabetes.

Sources:

* IFT: An Optimal Diet Starts with a High-Protein Breakfast