Increase Protein Intake in Elderly

Increase Protein Intake in Elderly

The objective of this study is to investigate the acceptance, intake, and compliance of protein enriched bread and protein enriched yoghurt drinks in elderly patients in two real life settings (short term; hospital, and longer term; rehabilitation home).

Prevalence rates of protein-energy malnutrition in elderly are high. In order to prevent loss of muscle mass and remain physically independent, it is utmost important for elderly to maintain their body protein mass. A sufficient protein supply according to their needs is therefore highly important. Especially for frail elderly, it is not easy to realize an increased protein intake by simply eating more. It is hypothesized that protein enriched food products that fit in a habitual diet (dairy and bread), result in a higher protein intake compared to regular products.

Inclusion Criteria:

• admitted to the department of internal medicine of VU university medical center or to the rehabilitation department of "Herstelhotel Dekkerswald"
• signed informed consent
• age of 55 or more
• rehabilitating from a hospital stay with the aim to return back home (rehabilitation home only)
• likely to remain admitted at least 3 weeks (rehabilitation home only).

Exclusion Criteria:

• not speaking Dutch language
• allergy for milk, soy or gluten
• a medical condition that is considered by the treating physician as a contra indication for receiving protein enriched food products
• a diet that does not allow the use of normal bread or dairy products (e.g. fluid diet, strong sodium restricted diet)
• not able to eat or feed themselves
• receiving tube feeding or parenteral nutrition
• suffering from a terminal illness