Category: Sarcopenia

Research suggests that older adults, including an 85-year-old woman, require significantly more protein than younger adults to maintain muscle mass and health, with recommendations ranging from 1.0 to 1.2 grams per kilogram of body weight daily. This increased need is due to a phenomenon called anabolic resistance, where the body becomes less efficient at using protein to build muscle as it ages.

According to a 2019 study, nearly half of older adults get less than the amount of protein recommended for their age, putting them at risk for muscle loss and frailty. A person who is 65 years or older typically needs significantly more protein than a younger adult to counteract age-related muscle decline, a condition known as sarcopenia. The exact amount depends on weight, activity level, and overall health.

According to a 2022 report, an average of 46% of older adults do not meet daily protein recommendations, a critical factor for maintaining muscle mass. Finding what is the best protein for muscle atrophy is vital for protecting muscle health, especially for older adults or those recovering from illness or injury.