Seniors Who Consume Protein Less Likely to Break a Hip

Biggs Chiropractic, Mesa, AZ
biggschiropractic@gmail.com

In my chiropractic, acupuncture, and nutrition practice, I treat a lot of older patients. I have grown to appreciate their experience, humor, and positive outlook on life. They have enriched my life in many ways, and for that I am very grateful.

One problem that plagues the senior citizen population is the risk of hip fracture.  Hip fractures can be devastating, sometimes leading to disability and even death due to secondary complications.

Much has been published regarding the role of Calcium and other mineral supplements in promoting healthy bones. There is also common knowledge that Vitamin D is of vital importance.  A recent study, however, at the Musculoskeletal Research Program at the Institute for Aging Research has pointed towards another simple step that senior citizens can take in order to reduce their risks of hip fracture.

In this new article, researchers affiliated with Harvard School of Medicine found that those that consumed less than 46 grams of protein daily were 50% more likely to suffer from a hip fracture.

Dr. Hannan, an associate professor of medicine at Harvard Medical School, recommends that older women consume at least 46 grams of protein per day, and that older men consume at least 56 grams of protein daily. This can come from both animal sources (meal, poultry, fish, eggs, milk, cheese and yogurt) and plants (legumes, grains, nuts, seeds and vegetables).

According to Dr. Hannan, other studies have shown that dietary protein helps to improve bone mineral density. He said that the increased protein consumption could also result in stronger and healthier muscles, providing for more stability across joints. I believe that perhaps the additional muscle mass would help improve balance and prevent falls which often result in hip fractures.

Whatever the reasons for the benefits, the results are clear.  Protein consumption is vital to improve bone and muscle strength.

Keith E. Biggs, DC

3617 E. Southern, Suite 8
Mesa, AZ  85206
www.eastmesachiropractor.com
biggschiropractic@gmail.com
Office:  480-985-3334
Cell:     480-375-0068