Proteins are essential nutrients for the good physical health of seniors, according to the results of a study published in the JAMDA medical journal. To stay healthy, older people should consume one gram of protein per pound of body weight per day.
Inserm researchers conducted a study with 1,345 subjects aged 74 on average, who responded to a food survey at home conducted by a dietitian. The researchers analyzed the average daily protein intakes and total energy intakes of the participants.
The seniors also responded to a test based on 5 physical factors, unwanted weight loss of more than three kilos, fatigue, muscle weakness assessed on walking, climbing stairs or the ability to get up from a chair, slow walking over a distance of six meters and finally a weekly physical activity time of less than one hour. Of all the participants, 4.1% of people were considered fragile because they met at least three of the criteria taken into account.
Protein promotes physical fitness in seniors
The conclusions of this study reveal that few frail people were consume enough protein. They were only 36.4% to eat at least 1 gram of protein per kilo, against 58.6% of more robust people. “This significant link has enabled us to establish that sufficient protein intake reduces the risk of frailty by nearly 60%, whether the protein is of animal or vegetable origin,” explains Catherine Feart.
“Proteins are muscle constituents and protect against sarcopenia (decreased muscle tone, editor’s note), while total energy intake can be provided by lipids, carbohydrates or even alcohol which do not have these functions. However, frailty in the elderly exposes them to the risk of falling, hospitalization or even institutionalization. In addition, it accelerates the decline in the event of shock or psychological or physical stress. These results are therefore a strong incentive to consume enough protein”, recalls Catherine Feart. The National Health Nutrition Program (PNNS) recommends eating meat, fish or eggs once or twice a day, in addition to vegetable proteins.
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