Whole milk to augment muscle protein synthesis in older women – a randomized, controlled trial

Older adults experience progressive loss of muscle mass and strength accompanying the aging process, termed sarcopenia, which predisposes those affected to an increased risk of falls, fractures, diabetes, and an impaired ability to perform activities of daily living. Sarcopenia is inevitable; but research suggests that we can attenuate these losses by increasing dietary protein intake above current recommendations and encouraging physical activity. The primary aim of this study is to assess the efficacy of proteins contained in whole and skimmed milk compared to a common dairy alternative (i.e., almond beverage) on indices of mobility in older women. The team chose to look specifically at women because they live, on average, longer than men and a majority are not currently meeting basic protein requirements. Results from this study will help equip health care practitioners with a practical, easily implementable strategy with the potential to reduce the impact of sarcopenia in the aging population.