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How Much Protein Does An Elderly Female Require?
Question: I am 80 years old, female, weigh 125 pounds, 66 inches tall. I eat canned or fresh salmon about once a week. Other protein comes mainly from lentils and soybean products (tofu, boca burgers, weiners). Are these adequate sources. How much protein should I aim for. XXXXXX
Brief Answer:
Your question is about whether you are using good protein sources
Detailed Answer:
Good Morning XXXXXXX
It sounds as if you are trying to eat a very healthy diet as you are choosing excellent sources of vegetarian protein. Are the "wieners" processed meat or are they soy based as well? Let us now talk about how MUCH protein you need.
Because you are at the beautiful age of 80, you will want to include a higher amount of protein in your diet as it is harder to maintain muscle mass as we age. So instead of the minimum amount of protein for you which would be 45 g/day, I would push it closer to 90 g per day and make certain you drink enough water to process the protein (1cc per calorie or at least 8 cups per day).
It would be good to get omega- 3 fatty acids in your diet to maintain a smooth and hearty vascular systerm as well as to keep your joints oiled and to reduce overall inflammation. Most people take 1-3 g/day.
You are a little on the thin side. Are you happy with your weight? Is this your usual weight or have you lost weight recently? How is your health overall?
I would be happy to clarify my answer if you have any questions. My best wishes to you and to a long, happy, healthy life!
Your question is about whether you are using good protein sources
Detailed Answer:
Good Morning XXXXXXX
It sounds as if you are trying to eat a very healthy diet as you are choosing excellent sources of vegetarian protein. Are the "wieners" processed meat or are they soy based as well? Let us now talk about how MUCH protein you need.
Because you are at the beautiful age of 80, you will want to include a higher amount of protein in your diet as it is harder to maintain muscle mass as we age. So instead of the minimum amount of protein for you which would be 45 g/day, I would push it closer to 90 g per day and make certain you drink enough water to process the protein (1cc per calorie or at least 8 cups per day).
It would be good to get omega- 3 fatty acids in your diet to maintain a smooth and hearty vascular systerm as well as to keep your joints oiled and to reduce overall inflammation. Most people take 1-3 g/day.
You are a little on the thin side. Are you happy with your weight? Is this your usual weight or have you lost weight recently? How is your health overall?
I would be happy to clarify my answer if you have any questions. My best wishes to you and to a long, happy, healthy life!
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Vinay Bhardwaj
Answered by
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