Boosting Daily Protein Intake Is Important For Healthy Aging

Aging and eating less protein tend to slow the body’s muscle-building efficiency. Eating more protein can reverse that process, leading to a healthier weight, better fitness and an improved quality of life. A new U.S. study involving 20 healthy adults between 52-75 years of age varied the distribution and amounts of protein meals over a four-day test period. The researchers found that the amount of protein consumed – but not the distribution pattern -- had a significant impact on muscle protein synthesis. The researchers recommend that older adults ingest about 93 g of protein a day (for a 170-pound person) to encourage maximum protein synthesis. This represents a significantly higher amount of protein than the current recommended dietary allowance (RDA).