Protein Supplementation for Strength and Functionality in Older Adults: Is There Still Any Doubt? A Brief Update Review

Abstract

It is widely known that the aging process induces relevant impairments on both muscle morphology and function. In this sense, resistance training alongside proper protein intake are important strategies to mitigate the sarcopenia process in older individuals. However, adding protein supplementation (PS) to resistance training interventions for enhancing muscle strength and functional performance has shown mixed results in this population. Therefore, the present study aimed to review the most recent evidence regarding PS and its effects on muscle strength and functional parameters of older adults. In addition, the effect size of each individual study (post–pre intervention) was also calculated to provide further clinical relevance on the topic. The results of the studies included do not seem to support PS for healthy older adults with proper protein intake. However, further studies with other sample characteristics (very old, frail, obese, and inadequate protein consumption) must be carried out to better understand the effects of PS in an older population.

Old muscle, new tricks: a clinician perspective on sarcopenia and where to next

“…Adding protein to resistance-based exercise training has shown mixed results. It appears that protein supplementation has limited benefit for older adults with adequate protein intake, but further studies are required to determine benefit in specific populations, particularly those in care, the very frail or with inadequate protein intake [102]. The Exercise and Nutrition for Healthy AgeiNg trial is an ongoing five-arm triple-blinded randomised controlled trial in sarcopenic older adults, to assess the combined anabolic interventions of protein, omega-3-supplementation, and exercise on physical performance, compared with placebo or single interventions (NCT 03649698).…”