High-Protein Diet Does Not Increase Muscle Mass or Improve Well-Being in Older Men

High protein intake does not increase muscle mass or improve other health outcomes, according to a study published in JAMA Internal Medicine. Researchers randomized 78 participants aged 65 or older into several intervention groups of high-protein diets, testosterone injections, or recommended daily protein intakes and placebo injections and compared lean body mass, physical prowess, and overall well-being. Those who consumed more protein did not increase muscle mass or improve physical functionality, well-being, or responsiveness to testosterone, compared with those who consumed lower amounts of protein. These data suggest policymakers reevaluate protein intake recommendations based on outdated research.