Short-term effect of a protein load on appetite and food intake in diseased mildly undernourished elderly people.

Short-term effect of a protein load on appetite and food intake in diseased
mildly undernourished elderly people.

Irvine P, Mouzet JB, Marteau CC, Salle A, Genaitay M, Favreau AM, Berrut G,
Ritz P.

Inserm EMI-U 00.18, Medicine B-CHU, 4 rue Larrey, ANGERS F-49033, Cedex,
France.

Background & aims: Malnutrition is a risk factor for mortality and various
morbidities in the elderly. A low-energy intake often prevails and therapeutic
interventions include the administration of dietary supplements, sometimes
rich in proteins. We have tested the hypothesis that a protein-rich
supplement inhibits appetite and decreases voluntary food intake. Methods:
Twelve mildly undernourished (BMI 21.3+/-2.4kg/m(2)) elderly (84+/-7.8yr)
diseased persons were each studied under 3 conditions, in which they were
given in random order at breakfast, and on consecutive days: either no
supplement, a 250kcal, 20g protein supplement or a 250kcal, 3.5g protein
supplement. Hunger, fullness, and desire to eat sensations were monitored
half-hourly from before breakfast until lunch, and hourly from lunch until
dinner. Food intake was assessed by weighing food before and after meals.
Total energy and macronutrient intakes were calculated over 24h. Results:
Both supplements increased energy intake (+185kcal protein supplement,
+176kcal). Protein supplementation induced a net 17g increase in protein
intake ( [Formula: see text] ). Neither supplement affected spontaneous food
intake at lunch, dinner, or over the 24h. Protein supplementation significantly
depressed appetite in the breakfast to lunch period. Conclusion: A 250kcal,
20g protein supplement depresses hunger without affecting food intake in
elderly diseased mildly undernourished persons.