Sarcopenia and Protein Intake: Is the RDA Adequate?
Introduction
Sarcopenia is an age related condition which is characterized by a loss of skeletal muscle and function.1 The decline in skeletal muscle begins in the fourth decade of life and by age 80 a 30% reduction in muscle mass can be seen, with even greater losses in functional strength.1 Significant decrements in muscle mass and strength increase the risk of morbidity and mortality in the aged.1 The prevalence of sarcopenia in 60 year olds has been found to be almost 50% in men and 60% in women.2 Optimal protein intake in the elderly has been shown to reduce the risk of age related sarcopenia.3
The Recommended Daily Allowance (RDA) for dietary protein intake for all adults regardless
Introduction
Sarcopenia is an age related condition which is characterized by a loss of skeletal muscle and function.1 The decline in skeletal muscle begins in the fourth decade of life and by age 80 a 30% reduction in muscle mass can be seen, with even greater losses in functional strength.1 Significant decrements in muscle mass and strength increase the risk of morbidity and mortality in the aged.1 The prevalence of sarcopenia in 60 year olds has been found to be almost 50% in men and 60% in women.2 Optimal protein intake in the elderly has been shown to reduce the risk of age related sarcopenia.3
The Recommended Daily Allowance (RDA) for dietary protein intake for all adults regardless