Eating Plenty of Protein Reduces Hip Fracture Risk

Eating a protein-rich diet can significantly reduce seniors risk of hip fracture, say researchers from the Hebrew SeniorLife Institute for Aging Research, an affiliate of Harvard Medical School. Marian T. Hannan, D.Sc., M.P.H., co-director of the Musculoskeletal Research Program at the Institute for Aging Research, and colleagues examined the daily protein intake of 946 seniors involved in the Framingham Osteoporosis Study. Results showed that seniors with the lowest daily protein intake sustained 50% more hip fractures than those who ate more protein. Furthermore, participants who suffered hip fractures ate less than 46 grams of dietary protein each day – the recommended daily amount for adults. Previous studies have found that a higher dietary protein intake is associated with a higher bone mineral density, however Dr Hannan believes that dietary protein may also protect against hip fracture by helping to build stronger leg muscles. She 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.