Older individuals often lose muscle. Contributing factors are reduced appetite, preference for carbohydrate over protein, and decline in the ability to digest protein foods due to reduced production of hydrochloric acid and pancreatic enzymes.
Studies have shown that older men and women who use a protein supplement have greater strength and muscle mass gains when they exercise than those who do not use the supplement. Retention of strength for as long as possible is important as we age because muscle weakness increases the likelihood of falls and broken bones.
Reference:
Evans WJ, Protein Nutrition, Exercise and Aging, J Am Coll Nutr, 2004;23(6):601S-609S.
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