The Relationship Between Protein Intake and Muscle Mass and Strength in the Elderly

Protein is essential for building muscle mass and functional capacity. Aging results in decreased muscle mass and, consequently, functional capacity. This process is a physiological condition of the body resulting from an imbalance between anabolism and catabolism in muscle cells. This can be prevented through adequate protein intake and physical activity. Assessment of muscle mass and strength was conducted to determine the physical strength of elderly people in relation to meeting daily protein intake requirements. This study aimed to determine the relationship between protein intake and changes in muscle mass and strength in elderly people. This study used an observational cross-sectional design. Data were collected from elderly people in Tulungagung Regency, East Java, through interviews regarding protein intake, muscle mass measurements, and functional capacity during July and August 2024. Sixty-five individuals were recruited. The results showed a relationship between protein intake and muscle mass (p<0.05; r=0.7), while right and left functional capacity did not show a significant relationship (p>0.05). The conclusion of this study is that protein intake has a strong relationship with increased muscle mass. However, no differences were found in muscle strength due to various factors influencing the assessment hand grip strength.