The importance of branched-chain amino acids as components of dietary protein for successful aging

초록

By 2030, twenty percent of the U.S. population will be comprised of older adults. Longer life spans and aging of baby boomers will result in doubling of the population of Americans over the age of 65 which will reach almost 90 million people over the next thirty years. Chronic diseases such as heart disease, cancer, and diabetes pose great risks as people age. People living with chronic disease(s) often experience diminished quality of life, which can be attributed to a long period of decline and disability. Therefore, it is important to identify factors that ensure successful aging. Successful aging is a concept that consists of physical health, social wellbeing, psychological wellbeing, and environment and economic security. Nutrition is an important component of successful aging, and serves as a modulator of health and function in older adults. Poor nutrition can contribute to the development of sarcopenia and obesity, and increase risk for chronic disease. As life expectancy continues to rise, it is important to consider optimal nutritional recommendations that will improve health outcomes, quality of life and physical independence in older adults. Several studies identify the branched-chain amino acids (BCAA) as nutrients that may improve function and quality of life in healthy-older adults, as well as improve the ability of older patients to recover from disease and trauma. This chapter will focus on how intake of BCAA, as components of dietary protein, can contribute to physical health and wellbeing to ensure successful aging. © 2021 Nova Science Publishers, Inc.

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