Impact of whey protein supplementation in a weight-loss intervention in rural dwelling adults: A feasibility study

Authors: BATSIS, JOHN - University Of North Carolina; PETERSEN, CURTIS - Dartmouth College; COOK, SUMMER - University Of New Hampshire; AL-NIMR, RIMA - Dartmouth College; DRIESSE, TIFFANY - University Of North Carolina; PIDGEON, DAWNA - Dartmouth College; FIELDING, ROGER - Jean Mayer Human Nutrition Research Center On Aging At Tufts University

Submitted to: Clinical Nutrition
Publication Type: Peer Reviewed Journal
Publication Acceptance Date: 7/12/2021
Publication Date: 7/23/2021
Citation: Batsis, J.A., Petersen, C.L., Cook, S.B., Al-Nimr, R.I., Driesse, T., Pidgeon, D., Fielding, R. 2021. Impact of whey protein supplementation in a weight-loss intervention in rural dwelling adults: A feasibility study. Clinical Nutrition. 45:426-432. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.clnesp.2021.07.006.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.clnesp.2021.07.006

Interpretive Summary: Weight loss in older adults enhances physical function, but may lead to muscle (sarcopenia) and bone (osteoporosis) loss. Whey protein is a low cost rich source of essential amino acids and may improve physical function and help to prevent sarcopenia and osteoporosis. We evaluated the feasibility and acceptability of consuming whey protein in the context of a weight-loss plus exercise program in obese older adults. In this pilot study of older adults who consumed whey protein or no whey protein three times weekly following exercise, attendance rates for protein vs. non-protein groups were similar and whey protein consumption was reported to be pleasant, had little aftertaste, and was neither salty or sticky. Both were adherent to the intervention and lost significant weight. Grip strength was improved in the protein compared to the non-protein group. Our results suggest that whey protein is a low-cost and readily available intervention that can be integrated into a weight loss intervention.

Technical Abstract: Background & Aims: Weight loss in older adults enhances physical function, but may lead to sarcopenia and osteoporosis. Whey protein is a low cost rich source of essential amino acids, may improve physical function. We evaluated the feasibility and acceptability of consuming whey protein in the context of a weight-loss intervention in older adults with obesity. Methods: A 12-week pilot feasibility, non-randomized weight loss study of 28 older adults was conducted, consisting of individualized, weekly dietitian visits with twice weekly physical therapist-led group strengthening classes. Half consumed whey protein, three times weekly, following exercise. Preliminary efficacy measures of body composition, sit-to-stand, 6-min walk and grip strength and subjective measures of self-reported health and function were also evaluated. Results: Of the 37 enrolled, 28 completed the study (50 % in the protein group). Attendance rates for protein vs. non-protein groups were 89.9 +/- 11.1 % vs. 95.6 +/- 3.4 % (p = 0.08). Protein consumption was high in those attending classes (90.3 %) as was compliance at home (82.6 %). Whey was pleasant(67.3 +/- 22.1, range 30-100, above average), had little aftertaste, and was neither salty or sticky. All were compliant (0.64 +/- 0.84, range 0-5, low = higher compliance). Both groups lost significant weight (protein vs. no protein, -3.45 +/- 2.86 vs. -5.79 +/- 3.08, p = 0.47); Sit-to-stand, 6-min walk, and gait speed were no different, grip strength was improved in the protein compared to the non-protein group (-2.63 kg vs. 4.29 kg; p < 0.001). Conclusions: Our results suggest that whey protein is a low-cost and readily available nutritional supplement that can be integrated into a weight loss intervention.