A protein-rich diet could improve muscle strength in seniors
Quelle: VIDEOELEPHANT (Glomex)
A study by McGill University found that seniors who evenly distribute their protein intake throughout the day are three times stronger than those who consume most of their protein in a single meal. The researchers followed the dietary and exercise habits of 1,700 seniors aged 67 to 84 for three years and conducted physical tests to analyze the results. They found that most proteins were consumed during dinner, while breakfast contained the least amount of proteins. The study revealed that those who evenly distributed their protein consumption throughout the day had higher muscle strength. In Canada, 15-30 grams of protein per meal are considered a guideline; this study found that only a small percentage of participants reached the 30-gram limit. Women with a balanced protein intake consumed an average of 18g at breakfast, 23g at lunch, and 23g at dinner, while men consumed an average of 21g, 29g, and 30g, respectively. Women with a more uneven distribution consumed only 8g of protein at breakfast, 21g at lunch, and 30g at dinner. Men with an uneven distribution of protein intake consumed about 11g at breakfast, 20g at lunch, and 41g at dinner. Factors such as gender played an important role in the analysis of physical function, with most protein-related mobility benefits occurring in men. The study found that achieving a balanced protein intake did not necessarily affect the speed of physical decline, as the strength of each sample decreased over time. The researchers noted a significant decrease in the physical performance of seniors during the study, with men's muscle strength decreasing by 20% and women's by 18.2%. The study concluded that a consistent and balanced protein intake can help maintain muscle strength longer, highlighting the importance of a healthy, protein-rich diet.