A study conducted by researchers from the National Institute of Health and Nutrition, Tohoku University, and Teikyo University shows that a diet rich in animal protein can prevent the rapid decline in physical, psychological, and social function in the elderly.
As the human body ages, its ability to absorb protein gradually decreases. After the age of 65, the daily requirement for protein increases.
The researchers selected 1,007 Japanese elderly people with an average age of 67.4. At the beginning of the study and seven years later, they each completed a food survey questionnaire. Based on their high or low intake of total protein, animal protein, and plant protein, the researchers divided them into four groups and conducted higher-level functional tests, including social function, intellectual function, and activities of daily living.
The results showed that men with a high intake of animal protein were 39% less likely to experience functional decline than other men. However, this correlation was not observed in female participants. Therefore, the researchers believe that a diet rich in animal protein helps elderly men maintain a variety of functions.