How to live a healthy life in retirement? Nutrients: insufficient protein intake reduces muscle strength in older adults, retirees.
Insufficient protein intake may be linked to a decline in physical function among older adults. This conclusion was reached by researchers from the University of Sharjah, who analyzed data from over 38,000 individuals across 27 European countries. The results of the study were published in the journal Nutrients.
It turned out that people with the lowest levels of protein consumption are more likely to experience a decrease in muscle strength and difficulties in daily activities. In particular, they have a higher likelihood of facing problems with walking, climbing stairs, and performing routine tasks—from getting up from a chair to going grocery shopping.
The relationship was not uniform: for men, protein deficiency had a stronger impact on muscle strength, while for women, it affected mobility more. The most pronounced effects were observed in individuals over the age of 66, which researchers attribute to the age-related decline in the body's ability to utilize protein to maintain muscle mass.
The authors emphasize that the study does not prove a direct causal relationship but highlights the important role of nutrition in maintaining independence in older age. According to them, a combination of adequate protein intake and physical activity may slow the age-related decline in strength and mobility.
