Nutrition
B · Reasonable confidenceExtra protein alongside strength training in older adults
Subject: Effects of Protein Supplementation in Older Adults Undergoing Resistance Training: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
What this means
Extra protein alongside strength training gave a small gain in fat-free mass (SMD 0.23). No clear difference was found in muscle mass or muscle strength.
Finger D, Goltz FR, Umpierre D, Meyer E, da Rosa LHT, Schneider CD · 2015 · Sports Medicine
What does this rating mean?
A solid systematic review with caveats, or consistent indications with a limited scope.
Findings
In older adults, protein supplementation added only a small significant benefit to fat-free mass and no significant benefit to muscle mass or strength over resistance training alone — the training stimulus itself dominates, arguing against routinely prescribing protein supplements to older RT clients.
Who this applies to
Older adults with a mean age of 60 or over doing at least 6 weeks of strength training; mean ages 61 to 79 years.
What to keep in mind
Protein protocols varied widely in source, amount and timing. Study quality was generally low, and little is known about the very elderly.
Practical conclusion for REZA
Reason not to routinely prescribe a protein supplement to older clients: training itself is the main driver, and a supplement adds little once diet is already adequate.
View method and source
Methodology
Meta-analysis
Population
9 RCTs, 462 older adults aged 61-79 years
Intervention
RT + protein supplementation vs RT + placebo/no supplement
Outcome measures
Fat-free mass, muscle mass, muscle strength
Limitations
Only 9 RCTs; low methodological quality of included studies; heterogeneous supplement types/doses; habitual protein intake often uncontrolled.
Original source
DOI: 10.1007/s40279-014-0269-4 · PMID: 25355074
View on PubMed →This information is general education about scientific research. It is not personal medical advice and does not replace diagnosis or treatment by a doctor or other healthcare professional. If you have symptoms, a medical condition or take medication, consult your GP or treating professional before changing your training or nutrition.