High-Protein Diet Fights Functional Decline among Older Adults

Sharon Moore March 14, 2014

Past studies have shown that as people age, their body’s ability to absorb protein decreases. So to compensate for this loss, new research suggests they should increase their protein intake as it may help them maintain a higher level of physical, psychological and social functioning.

Proteins are indispensable for growth and maintenance of every kind of cell in the body. They play a huge role in so many processes, like in the replenishment of lost blood, healing of wounds and scars, replacement of dead cells, and hair and nail growth. Proteins are also needed to build and repair muscle tissues.

Protein-rich diet promotes physical and cognitive function

Just recently, researchers from the National Institute of Health and Nutrition in Japan, headed by Megumi Tsubota-Utsugi, Ph.D., M.P.H., RD., along with and her colleagues at Tohoku University and Teikyo University, tested whether protein intake affects functional capabilities of older adults. Their study involved 1,007 older Japanese people, with an average age of 67.4 years. At the start of the study and seven years later, participants completed food questionnaires. They were then divided into four groups according to their intake levels of total animal and plant protein.

Researchers found that men in the highest quartile of animal protein intake had a 39 per cent decreased chance of experiencing higher-level functional decline than those in the lowest quartile. However, such association was not seen among women.

They also found no consistent association between plant protein intake and future higher-level functional decline in either sex.

“Tests of higher-level functional capacity included social and intellectual aspects, as well as measures related to activities of daily living,” the researchers said. “Identifying nutritional factors that contribute to maintaining higher-level functional capacity is important for prevention of future deterioration of activities of daily living,” said Tsubota-Utsugi. “Along with other modifiable health behaviours, a diet rich in protein may help older adults maintain their functional capacity.”

The new findings were published in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society.

Source of this article:

High-Protein Diet May Prevent Functional Decline in the Elderly