#Public Health Strategy

In a groundbreaking study published in Nature Medicine, researchers from Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, in collaboration with the University of Copenhagen and the University of Montreal, have uncovered significant links between certain dietary patterns and healthy aging over the long term. Over a 30-year span, the research emphasized that balanced diets, rich in both animal and plant-based foods, are instrumental in promoting not just longevity, but also cognitive, physical, and mental wellness as people age. This comprehensive study has particular significance for Thailand, where cultural dietary habits and demographic trends are rapidly evolving.

A recent shift in protein consumption trends has highlighted a surprising disparity between young and older adults, prompting a closer examination of dietary habits in Thailand. The latest research reveals that while younger generations are embracing high-protein diets, older individuals often fall short of recommended levels, which may have significant health implications. This report delves into the research findings and explores what these trends mean for Thai society.

Protein, long revered for its role in muscle building and energy supply, is increasingly popular among young adults, with many using supplements and high-protein foods like cottage cheese, tofu, and protein bars. However, experts warn that older adults are consuming substantially less protein than needed. Studies from the University of Birmingham and the University of Sheffield emphasize that middle-aged and older adults require more protein to counteract the natural decline in muscle mass and the body’s reduced efficiency in synthesizing proteins, a condition known as anabolic resistance.