Protein requirements: are seniors falling short?
Regardless of age, a meal without protein is like macaroni without cheese – it’s simply incomplete. While appetites may dictate that soup or buttered toast is an appropriate meal for older adults, long-term care guideless rightfully recommend protein at every meal throughout the day. But is it enough protein? Here’s the latest news on protein for seniors.
Why is protein so important?
Aging is associated with changes in body composition, including increases in fat mass and decreases in lean mass. The age-related loss of skeletal muscle, or sarcopenia, leads older adults to a greater risk of functional impairment and mortality. Adequate protein helps older adults retain muscle mass.
While many things contribute to sarcopenia, inadequate dietary protein intake may accelerate the process.