Soy protein boosts muscle health and mobility of older adults in just 12 weeks

In a recent study published in “Nutrition”, muscle mass and 6-minute walk performance remarkably improved in older adults after a 12-week soy protein-rich meal intervention. Researchers tested whether a diet high in soy protein could help boost muscle strength and function in older adults (mean age, 84.9 ± 7.0 years; 61.9% female). In this 12-week randomized controlled trial, 84 seniors from a long-term care facility were divided into two groups: one enjoyed three daily soy protein-rich meals (30 g/day) while the other continued their usual diet.

Participants on the soy protein diet showed notable improvements in muscle mass indicators compared to those on the regular diet such as soft lean mass (mean, 1.43 kg; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.20–1.65 kg), skeletal muscle mass (mean, 1.20 kg; 95% CI: 0.43–1.96 kg), appendicular skeletal muscle mass (mean, 0.79 kg; 95% CI: 0.07–1.52 kg), and skeletal muscle index (mean, 0.37 kg/m2; 95% CI: 0.05–0.68 kg/m2).

Calf circumference considerably decreased in the control group (mean, −0.98 cm; 95% CI: −1.61 to −0.36 cm)  but was maintained in the intervention group, with profound differences witnessed in calf circumference and 6-minute walk performance between the two groups. Thus, incorporating soy protein into the diet of older adults in care facilities can enhance muscle health and mobility, making mealtime a powerful tool for aging well.