At a global scale, it is estimated that by 2050, 30% or more of the population worldwide will be over 60 years old. As our most senior generations expand in numbers, they are living longer and more active lives. They are increasing the demand for healthier products that include more protein and vitamins, as well as functional foods designed to meet the specific needs of the active, yet ageing body.
To support the wellbeing of elderly people, protein is particularly needed to contribute to the growth and maintenance of muscle mass as well as in the normal maintenance of bones. A current study from The Boston Nutritional Status Survey about nutrition in the elderly, states that 50% of elderly people consume less than the recommended daily amount of protein. This results in the loss of muscle strength and functionality.
Protein is particularly needed to contribute to the growth and maintenance of muscle mass as well as in the normal maintenance of bones, the strength of which naturally declines over time.
The ageing body requires both more protein as well as specific vitamins and minerals due to the body’s insufficient use of nutrients and the generally declining intake of food. For elderly people, the following is also known to be true:
Older adults want to age healthily and enjoy good food. Phospholipids play an important role in cognitive ageing. Valio’s Nutrition Research Manager Anu Turpeinen talks about how food manufacturers can use phospholipids to create desirable products for the rapidly ageing population.
As a result, many are on the lookout for new, innovative products that fulfill the naturally occurring nutritional needs of an ageing body. When searching for products with a fascinating and cost-efficient combination of ingredients, characteristics and flavours, it is important to keep in mind the nutritional requirements of an ageing body. Such requirements include:
In this whitepaper, Dr Anu Turpeinen explains the effects of phospholipids that are naturally found in dairy fat. Food products rich in phospholipids have effects related to physical activity and cognitive functions in all age groups.