Canadians’ protein intake levels may not be adequate to promote optimal muscle health in different age groups, according to new research from Canada and the United States.
The study, titled “Protein: A nutrient in focus,” suggests that in order to promote a healthier body, especially for seniors and those hoping to lose weight, protein consumption needs to be increased and spread out more evenly throughout the day.
“The main point the paper was trying to address is there are issues with the current recommendations,” said study co-author Rajavel Elango, an assistant professor with the Department of Pediatrics at the University of British Columbia.
“We are suggesting consumption needs to be defined for each age group.”
The researchers, from Canadian and American universities, based their findings on a review of short-term health studies. They concluded that consuming 25-35 grams of high-quality protein at every meal promotes muscle health and preserves lean body mass among men and women of different ages, notably in aging populations.
“By eating adequate amounts of protein, we are proposing we would be able to sustain body mass for much longer,” said Elango.“There have been a lot of studies suggesting the higher the level of protein intake, the lower the chance for fractures and falls.”
