Study Links Low Protein Intake to Reduced Physical Capacity in Adults

Austria 04.06.2026

A European study involving over 38,000 adults found a connection between low protein consumption and increased likelihood of muscle weakness and difficulties in daily tasks. The research, published in Nutrients, highlights the importance of adequate protein intake in older adults.

Study Links Low Protein Intake to Reduced Physical Capacity in Adults

A study conducted across Europe has identified a significant link between low protein intake and diminished physical capabilities in adults over 50. The research analyzed data from more than 38,000 participants and was published in the scientific journal Nutrients. This study utilized information from the Survey of Health, Ageing and Retirement in Europe (SHARE), which monitors the health status and aging of individuals over 50 in 27 European countries.

The analysis compared dietary habits recorded between 2019 and 2020 with physical changes reported from 2021 to 2022. Results indicated that individuals within the lowest 10% of protein consumption faced a higher risk of physical decline. The study assessed the frequency of consumption of three food groups: dairy products, legumes and eggs, and meats, fish, or poultry, constructing a protein intake index from these data.

Muscle function was evaluated through handgrip strength tests and questions related to daily activities such as walking, climbing stairs, bending, reaching objects, bathing, and shopping. In men, the most pronounced association was observed in the loss of muscle strength. Men aged 50 to 65 with lower protein intake were 39% more likely to exhibit low handgrip strength, while the risk increased by 35% in those over 66.

For women, the impact was mainly seen in mobility and autonomy. Women with lower protein intake had greater difficulties walking, bending, reaching objects, or shopping. Notably, women aged 50 to 65 with low protein intake were more than twice as likely to report difficulties using the bathroom.

The authors clarified that the study is observational and does not establish a direct causal relationship. However, they emphasized that low protein intake could signal other risk factors like sedentarism, health problems, depression, or economic constraints. The research underscores the ongoing discussion about the importance of ensuring adequate protein intake during aging.

International guidelines recommend increasing protein consumption in older adults to maintain muscle mass and functional capacity. In this regard, dairy products remain a primary source of high-quality proteins, supporting nutrition and muscle maintenance in adults and older individuals.