Inadequate protein intake contributes to muscle wastage, impacting physical function and increasing the risk of frailty and mortality through falls. This risk is again increased in older adults with obesity, who may be unable to exercise or move freely, as their weight may mask the problem.
Malnutrition in older adults can be caused by a variety of factors, including loss of appetite, lack of ability to chew and swallow, and increased use of prescription medications.
The best food options to help seniors gain weight are your high-calorie foods such as healthy fats found in avocados, nuts, seeds, cold-pressed oils. Additionally, increasing calories by adding extra lean protein, additional portions of whole grains, or dairy products.
There are a variety of protein-rich options available to seniors. Some excellent choices include eggs, cottage cheese, or Greek yogurt. If you are looking to add some starch to your meal, you can use protein-rich basics like quinoa or black beans as an ingredient for your breakfast.
Whey supplementation has been shown to help prevent the loss of muscle mass in aging individuals, inhibit weight gain, and reduce risk factors for cardiovascular disease. This potent protein helps prevent frailty, obesity, and heart disease, while promoting longevity.
Kwashiorkor is a type of malnutrition characterized by severe protein deficiency. It causes fluid retention and a swollen, distended abdomen. Kwashiorkor most commonly affects children, particularly in developing countries with high levels of poverty and food insecurity.
Whey protein is the most popular fast absorbing protein. Its absorption rate has been estimated at roughly 10 grams per hour. At this rate, it takes just 2 hours to fully absorb a 20 gram-dose of whey.
Signs and symptoms of mitochondrial trifunctional protein deficiency that may begin after infancy include hypotonia, muscle pain, a breakdown of muscle tissue, and a loss of sensation in the extremities (peripheral neuropathy).
If your total protein level is low, you may have a liver or kidney problem, or it may be that protein isn't being digested or absorbed properly. A high total protein level could indicate dehydration or a certain type of cancer, such as multiple myeloma, that causes protein to accumulate abnormally.
Animal-based foods (meat, poultry, fish, eggs, and dairy foods) tend to be good sources of complete protein, while plant-based foods (fruits, vegetables, grains, nuts, and seeds) often lack one or more essential amino acid.
Protein Foods include all foods made from seafood; meat, poultry, and eggs; beans, peas, lentils; and nuts, seeds, and soy products. Beans, peas, and lentils are also part of the Vegetable Group. To learn more, visit the Beans, Peas, and Lentils page.
