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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 ageing, requiring adequate protein for healthy ageing. A shift to plant-based proteins (protein transition) offers benefits but needs careful planning to ensure muscle health and dietary acceptance in older adults.
Area of Science:
- Nutrition Science
- Gerontology
- Environmental Sustainability
Background:
- Global populations are ageing, increasing age-related diseases like sarcopenia and cardiometabolic conditions.
- Dietary protein is crucial for healthy ageing, with current Western diets heavily reliant on animal protein sources.
- Growing environmental concerns and plant-based diets' health benefits 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 ageing during the protein transition.
- To explore the challenges and opportunities of plant-based diets for older adults' cardiometabolic and muscle health.
- To examine consumer perspectives and feasibility of adopting plant-based diets in older populations.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of scientific evidence on protein intake, sources, and quality.
- Analysis of studies on plant-based dietary patterns and their impact on cardiometabolic and muscle health.
- Examination of research on age-related factors influencing dietary choices and acceptance of plant-based diets.
Main Results:
- Plant-based diets show promise for cardiometabolic health and environmental sustainability.
- Concerns exist regarding the digestibility and amino acid profiles of plant proteins for muscle health in older adults.
- Combining complementary plant protein sources may enhance nutritional quality and support health outcomes.
Conclusions:
- The protein transition presents both opportunities and challenges for healthy ageing.
- Optimizing plant-based protein intake is key to supporting muscle health and cardiometabolic well-being in older adults.
- Addressing feasibility and acceptability is crucial for successful adoption of plant-based diets among the ageing population.
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