Low-protein intakes and protein turnover in elderly women.

Abstract

A weight maintenance diet containing either low or adequate amounts of protein was provided to 12 elderly women for a period of 10 weeks. Leucine oxidation reflected the changes in nitrogen balance that occurred over time with low-protein feeding. Adaptation to the low-protein diet was not achieved. The women accommodated to the low-protein intake with decreases in body cell mass, immune response, and muscle function.