Assessment of Dietary Protein Needs of Older Women

Protein-energy; Imbalance Clinical Trial

Official title: Assessment of Dietary Protein Needs of Older Women

Status Completed

Clinical Trial Summary

The purpose of this study is to evaluate dietary protein requirements in elderly women aged 80 years and older using the indicator amino acid oxidation technique.

Hypothesis to be tested: Protein requirement for elderly women is higher than the estimated average requirement of 0.66 g∙kg-1∙d-1 protein. The recommended protein intake for elderly women is higher than the recommended dietary allowance of 0.80 g∙kg-1∙d-1 protein.

Clinical Trial Description

There is currently considerable debate regarding the accuracy of the estimated average requirement (EAR) and the recommended dietary allowance (RDA) for older people. Very limited data obtained from older individuals are available to support the assumption that age does not affect protein requirement. Existing method like nitrogen balance has inherent limitations that diminish it from being considered a reference method. Indicator amino acid oxidation technique is emerging as an alternative method to measure dietary protein requirement. It is more accurate and less demanding. The current study will be the first time this technique is used with elderly adults and will provide an important foundation for geriatric nutrition research. ;

Study Design

Observational Model: Cohort, Time Perspective: Prospective

Related Conditions & MeSH terms

• Protein-energy; Imbalance

• NCT number: NCT01193946
• Study type: Observational
• Source: Purdue University
• Status: Completed
• Phase: N/A
• Start date: May 2010
• Completion date: December 2011