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Associations between Essential Amino Acid Intake and Functional Health Outcomes in Older Adults: Analysis of the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, 2001–2018

Susan N. Cheung, Harris R. Lieberman, Stefan M. Pasiakos, V. Fulgoni, C. Berryman

Current Developments in Nutrition, 2024

10,843 participants · 7 citations

Abstract

Background The relationships between habitual essential amino acid (EAA) intake and body composition, muscle strength, and physical function in older US adults are not well defined. Objectives This cross-sectional study evaluated associations between usual EAA intakes and body composition, muscle strength, and physical function in US adults ≥65 y. Methods The Food and Nutrient Database for Dietary Studies (FNDDS) 2001–2018 was linked to the US Department of Agriculture Standard Reference database to access existing amino acid composition data for FNDDS ingredients. FNDDS ingredients without existing amino acid composition data were matched to similar ingredient codes with available data. Usual EAA, leucine, lysine, and sulfur-containing amino acid (SAA; methionine + cysteine) intakes (g/d) from National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2001–2018 were calculated for individuals ≥65 y (n = 10,843). Dependent variables included muscle strength measured by isometric grip test, body mass index (BMI), waist circumference, dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry-measured appendicular lean mass and whole-body fat mass, and self-reported physical function (that is, tasks of daily living). Regression analyses were used to determine covariate-adjusted relationships between EAA, leucine, lysine, and SAA intake and functional health outcomes. P < 0.0013 was considered significant. Results EAA, leucine, lysine, and SAA intakes, covaried with physical activity level and usual protein…

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