Nutrition
B · Reasonable confidenceExtra protein in healthy older adults who are not frail
Subject: Protein supplementation in healthy, non-frail older adults
What this means
Extra protein gave no measurable gain in lean mass, muscle strength, walking speed or rising from a chair. Combined with strength training it also added no extra effect.
ten Haaf DSM, Nuijten MAH, Maessen MFH, Horstman AMH, Eijsvogels TMH, Hopman MTE · 2018 · American Journal of Clinical Nutrition 108(5):1043-1059
What does this rating mean?
A solid systematic review with caveats, or consistent indications with a limited scope.
Findings
In older adults who are not frail and already get enough protein, extra supplementation on its own shows limited effects on fat-free mass, strength and physical function.
Who this applies to
Community-dwelling older adults who are not frail. Most already ate enough protein.
Size of the research
36 randomised trials with a total of 1682 participants.
What to keep in mind
Most participants already got enough protein, and studies used different types and amounts. For older adults with a low protein intake, the effect remains unclear.
Practical conclusion for REZA
This study contradicts the common sales pitch and is included deliberately for that reason: protein powder is not a standard recommendation at REZA. Anyone already getting enough gains little from it.
View method and source
Methodology
Systematic review with meta-analysis
Original source
DOI: 10.1093/ajcn/nqy192 · PMID: 30475963
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.