Publications by authors named "Nicola A Ward"
Context: Dietary protein is recommended for sarcopenia-a debilitating condition of age-related loss of muscle mass and strength that affects 27% of older adults. The effects of protein on muscle health may depend on protein quality.
Objective: The aim was to synthesize randomized controlled trial (RCT) data comparing plant with animal protein for muscle health.
Article Synopsis
- - The Eatwell Guide is the UK government's recommendation for a balanced diet, but its specific link to dementia risk hasn't been studied until now.
- - Analysis of data from 517 participants showed no significant correlation between Eatwell Guide scores and Alzheimer's disease risk, but higher scores were linked to lowered blood pressure and BMI.
- - While the Eatwell Guide didn’t directly affect dementia risk, it may help in preventing it by managing hypertension and obesity, which are known risk factors. Future research is suggested to explore these relationships further.
Article Synopsis
- The study investigates the impact of a protein-enriched Mediterranean diet, with and without exercise, on nutritional status and cognitive performance among older adults at risk of undernutrition and cognitive decline.
- Over 100 participants aged 60 and above will be randomized into three groups for a 6-month trial, measuring both primary (nutritional status) and secondary outcomes (cognitive function, quality of life, etc.).
- The trial has received ethical approval, and results will be shared with the public and scientific community through various channels like presentations and journal publications.