Protein, Metabolism & Aging: Nutrition Tips for Longevity

Eating well is important as we age, but with so much conflicting diet advice, how do you know what’s truly best for older adults? In this episode, geriatrician Leslie Kernisan, MD MPH, clears up common misconceptions about senior nutrition and breaks down the key components of a diet that supports healthy aging and metabolic health. Learn why nutrition science isn’t one-size-fits-all, how metabolism changes with age, and why maintaining muscle mass is crucial for long-term health. Dr. Kernisan also explains the role of protein, how to prevent malnutrition, and what older adults can do to reduce frailty and stay strong. Plus, what to know about vitamins and supplements for healthier aging, and which ones she recommends. If you or a loved one are wondering how to eat for better energy, strength, and longevity, this discussion provides practical, science-backed advice tailored for aging adults. Click here for more resources: https://betterhealthwhileaging.net/podcast/diet-and-nutrition-for-healthy-aging/ Related article: What to Do About Unintentional Weight Loss: https://betterhealthwhileaging.net/qa-unintentional-weight-loss-in-aging/ #nutritionforaging, #healthyeating, #agingwell, #malnutrition, #proteinforaging, #sarcopenia, #betterhealthwhileaging Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Nutrition and Aging 02:19 What to know about nutrition science 09:11 My view of a nutritious diet 12:50 How to eat healthy in aging 20:29 What is metabolic health 23:33 How to check your own metabolic health 25:41 How to improve metabolic health 31:15 Malnutrition in aging 34:07 How nutrition helps with frailty and sarcopenia 37:52 Protein intake in aging 40:10 Vitamins and supplements in aging 42:58 Dr. K’s approach to diet and aging 43:31 Conclusion and key takeaways WATCH NEXT: Exercise and Aging https://youtu.be/jbVT7GSDsEs?si=l5yOjm4yinMBJ9PI How to Improve Brain Health in Aging https://youtu.be/xKr9RTmXY1s The Surprising Risks of Too Much Vitamin D for Seniors https://youtu.be/YIvY8wyjfE4 3 Keys To Aging Successfully https://youtu.be/5AqLPC7oSiQ Falls Prevention: 8 Things Doctors Should Check https://youtu.be/satn4smVBqE?si=wi3c2M1ho5Lo4FfO Heart Failure in Aging: Symptoms, Types, and Treatments https://youtu.be/CRjxQISx_Wg For expert guidance on supporting your aging parents, visit Dr. K’s Helping Older Parents program: https://betterhealthwhileaging.net/helping-older-parents/ Disclaimer: The material on the Better Health While Aging Youtube channel, including any exchanges in the comments section, is for informational and educational purposes only. Any comments Dr. Kernisan may make regarding an individual’s story or comments should not be construed as establishing a physician-patient relationship between Dr. Kernisan and a caregiver, or care recipient. None of Dr. Kernisan’s website, social media, comments, or group information should be considered a substitute for individualized medical assessment, diagnosis, or treatment. Please see the full disclaimer for more information: https://betterhealthwhileaging.net/disclaimer/