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Methods to Study Changes in Inherent Protein Aggregation with Age in Caenorhabditis elegans
Published on: November 26, 2017
The Protein Transition in Older Adults
Rikke Sand Andersen1, Anique Julien1, Laura E Marchese1
1Deakin Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition, School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, Deakin University, Geelong, Victoria, Australia.
The Proceedings of the Nutrition Society
|August 4, 2026
Summary
The global population is aging, and the protein transition to plant-based diets offers health and environmental benefits. However, ensuring adequate nutrition, especially muscle health for older adults, requires careful planning of plant protein sources.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology and Nutritional Science
- Environmental Sustainability and Public Health
- Dietary Transitions and Aging
Background:
- Global populations are aging, increasing the prevalence of age-related conditions like cardiometabolic disease and sarcopenia.
- Dietary protein is crucial for healthy aging, with current Western diets heavily reliant on animal protein sources.
- Growing environmental concerns and the health benefits of plant-based diets are driving a shift towards plant-based proteins, termed the protein transition.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current evidence on protein requirements, sources, and quality for healthy aging during the protein transition.
- To explore the challenges and opportunities of plant-based diets in supporting both cardiometabolic and muscle health in older adults.
- To examine consumer perspectives and feasibility of adopting plant-based diets among aging populations.
Main Methods:
- Literature review synthesizing current scientific evidence.
- Analysis of protein requirements, digestibility, and amino acid profiles of plant vs. animal proteins.
- Examination of age-related physiological changes and behavioral factors influencing dietary choices.
Main Results:
- Plant-based diets show promise for cardiometabolic health and environmental sustainability.
- Potential challenges exist in meeting muscle health needs due to lower digestibility and less optimal amino acid profiles of some plant proteins.
- Combining complementary plant protein sources may enhance amino acid profiles and support muscle health outcomes.
- Older adults may face barriers to adopting plant-based diets due to age-related changes in appetite and sensory perception.
Conclusions:
- The protein transition presents a complex interplay between nutrition, health, and sustainability for aging populations.
- Strategic combination of plant protein sources is key to overcoming nutritional challenges for muscle health in older adults.
- Addressing feasibility and acceptability is crucial for the successful integration of plant-based diets in aging populations.
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