Dr. Gabrielle Lyon interviews Dr. Emily Lantz about muscle loss, sleep's impact on protein synthesis, and maintaining skeletal muscle mass in older adults. They discuss the difference between animal and plant protein, the importance of exercise in preventing muscle loss, and the role of biomarkers in monitoring muscle health. They also explore the future of protein research and its implications for feeding a growing population.
Protein intake is crucial for promoting muscle protein synthesis and maintaining optimal muscle health.
Addressing muscle health during periods of disuse, illness, and hospitalization is essential for preventing incomplete recovery of muscle mass and strength.
Improving sleep quality can positively impact muscle health and functional independence, reducing the risk of rehospitalization.
Deep dives
Understanding mechanisms behind muscle mass and functional capacity in middle-aged and older adults
Dr. Emily Lance's research focuses on investigating the factors that impact skeletal muscle mass and functional capacity in middle-aged and older adults, with a particular emphasis on aging women.
The role of amino acids and protein consumption in muscle protein synthesis
Dr. Lance's research explores the application and mechanism of action of amino acid and protein consumption on acute markers of anabolism, specifically muscle protein synthesis. This research highlights the importance of protein intake in promoting muscle protein synthesis.
Impact of disuse, illness, and hospitalization on muscle mass
Dr. Lance's work examines the rapid decline of muscle mass that occurs during periods of disuse, illness, and hospitalization. These events can lead to incomplete recovery of muscle mass and strength, highlighting the need to address muscle health during such periods.
Importance of an even distribution of dietary protein for muscle health
Dr. Lance discusses the concept of an even distribution of dietary protein throughout the day, emphasizing the necessity of consuming adequate protein at each meal. This approach ensures sufficient amino acids for muscle protein synthesis and supports optimal muscle health.
Effects of Bed Rest and Exercise on Muscle Loss
Bed rest can lead to muscle loss, regardless of age, with the average person losing two pounds of muscle. Older individuals tend to recover slower than younger individuals. Sedentary lifestyles and lack of exercise further exacerbate the challenge. Muscle stimulation devices, such as electrical stimulation, have been explored to counter muscle loss. Walking during hospitalization can help preserve strength and insulin sensitivity, although precautions must be taken for fall risks.
Sleep Quality and Functional Recovery in Older Adults
Sleep disturbances are common during hospitalization, affecting both nighttime sleep and daytime sleepiness. Poor sleep quality and daytime sleepiness can hinder physical functioning and recovery following hospitalization in older adults. There is a correlation between sleep quality and lower physical function post-hospitalization. Improving sleep quality may positively impact muscle health and functional independence, reducing the risk of rehospitalization.
Dr. Emily Lantz is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Nutrition, Metabolism and Rehabilitation Science in the School of Health Professions at the University of Texas Medical Branch. She has a Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Biochemistry from Iowa State University, a PhD in Nutrition Science from Purdue University. She completed a postdoctoral fellowship in skeletal muscle metabolism from the Division of Rehabilitation Science University of Texas Medical Branch.
In this episode we discuss:
Addressing muscle loss during injury and illness.
How does sleep affect protein synthesis?
What affects skeletal muscle mass in older adults?
The difference between animal and plant protein.
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