Most seniors are unsure if they are consuming enough protein

By: Trademagazin Date: 2025. 11. 14. 11:20

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The majority of Hungarians over the age of 60 consider regular meals and physical activity important, but many are not aware of whether they are actually getting enough protein. According to research commissioned by Danone Hungary, although the majority regularly consume protein-rich foods, awareness of this still leaves some room for criticism, and many experience symptoms that may even indicate protein deficiency.

71% of those surveyed eat 1–2 servings of protein-rich foods per day. However, it is noteworthy that 64% of respondents do not track their protein intake at all, and only 1% know exactly what the recommended daily amount is for them.

Fish and seafood are almost completely absent from the diet of older people, and soy products and plant-based milk substitutes are also almost unknown to them. The primary source of protein among them is meat, 70% of them consume them several times a week, and only 2% rarely or never. Dairy products are also very popular, with more than half of the respondents consuming them 1-2 servings per day. Among plant protein sources, legumes and nuts are typical (typically consumed 1-2 times a week).

People over 60 also lead an active lifestyle: 70% do some kind of physical activity at least 3-4 days a week, whether it’s walking, gardening or light exercise. However, only a few people take care of protein supplementation after sports (a total of 23% do this most or all the time), 79% never consume protein-containing foods after sports.

The research also shows that the diet of people over 60 is affected by many difficulties. 15% of them struggle with appetite problems, and for 12% of them, taking medication impairs their appetite. Difficulty chewing and swallowing affects 29% of them, which can significantly limit the variety of their diet.

The most common signs of protein deficiency were muscle weakness (23%), fatigue (21%), and difficulty moving (47%). Some also reported slower wound healing (11%) or more frequent illnesses (7%). Although many people do not experience symptoms, the survey clearly shows that a significant part of the age group is at risk of protein deficiency due to lack of awareness and eating difficulties.

“The health and activity of the older generation is closely related to adequate protein intake. It is of utmost importance that greater emphasis is placed not only on the regularity of meals, but also on the quality and quantity of protein intake among the elderly. Education, personalized dietary advice, special protein-rich medical foods and supplements can help people over 60 live healthier, more active and more balanced lives”

– emphasized Zsuzsanna Szűcs, professional partner of the research and president of the National Association of Hungarian Dietitians.