WHEY PROTEIN’S ROLE IN ENHANCING MUSCLE GROWTH

A powerful combination for strength gains in older individuals

A recent study published by the journal “Nutrients” evaluates the differential impact of protein supplementation in conjunction with resistance training on sarcopenia-associated declines in muscular strength, mass, and functional mobility among the elderly. Utilizing a comprehensive meta-analytical approach to assess randomized controlled trials, the study discerns the relative efficacy of diverse protein types, specifically whey, milk, casein, meat, soy, and peanut proteins. The analysis identified whey protein as the superior adjunct to resistance training, markedly enhancing muscle hypertrophy, grip strength, and ambulatory capacity. Despite the modulation of protein supplementation efficacy by factors such as participants’ baseline health, gender, and the administered protein dose, the findings emphasize whey protein’s critical role in mitigating sarcopenia among elderly individuals participating in resistance training programs. This evidence highlights whey protein as a key nutritional strategy in enhancing muscle health and functional capacity in the aging population.