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Current protein and amino acid intakes among Japanese people: Analysis of the 2012 National Health and Nutrition Survey
Author(s) -
IshikawaTakata Kazuko,
Takimoto Hidemi
Publication year - 2018
Publication title -
geriatrics and gerontology international
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.823
H-Index - 57
eISSN - 1447-0594
pISSN - 1444-1586
DOI - 10.1111/ggi.13239
Subject(s) - sarcopenia , medicine , environmental health , national health and nutrition examination survey , gerontology , meal , leucine , population , protein quality , amino acid , endocrinology , biology , pathology , biochemistry
Aim To evaluate protein and amino acid intakes and distribution among Japanese people in terms of prevention of sarcopenia or frailty. Methods We carried out a cross‐sectional study using data from Japan’s 2012 National Health and Nutrition Survey. From the original dataset, we selected individuals aged ≥30 years, who were not pregnant or lactating, and for whom dietary intake, bodyweight and body height data were available. Protein intake was calculated using exclusive software developed for the survey. Amino acid intake was calculated using the database created by the National Institute for Longevity Sciences. Results More than 95% of the participants met recommended levels of protein suggested by the Dietary Reference Intake in Japan. However, nearly half of the participants did not meet recommended levels in terms of prevention of sarcopenia. Leucine intake was not sufficient for each sex and age group, probably because of decreased intake of animal protein, especially protein from milk and dairy products. Distribution of protein and leucine in each meal tended toward dinner. Conclusions The Japanese population might have insufficient quality, quantity and distribution of protein intake required to prevent sarcopenia or frailty. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2018; 18: 723–731.