Dudrick Research Symposium: The Protein Hype: Are We Getting it Right in Aging, Obesity, and Chronic Disease? (SU10)

Despite decades of research, protein recommendations for older adults and patients with acute and chronic disease remain generalized and often inadequate. Emerging evidence, spanning tracer methodology, body composition phenotyping, and functional outcomes, suggests that traditional approaches may fall short in meeting the needs of diverse clinical populations. This symposium brings together global leaders in protein metabolism and clinical nutrition to challenge current paradigms and present updated insights on protein requirements in aging, obesity, cancer, and critical illness.

The faculty will discuss translational approaches, including targeted nutrition interventions and strategies to implement higher protein targets in practice. This session aims to provide clinicians and researchers with the tools to personalize protein recommendations across clinical settings.

Learning Objectives:

• Describe alterations in protein and amino acid metabolism that occur in obesity, weight loss and a spectrum of clinical conditions, including aging, critical illness, and recovery.
• Determine protein requirements for those experiencing rapid weight loss to ensure preservation of lean mass and function.
• Summarize protein targets for those with inflammation, inactivity, and disease-specific catabolic stressors.
• Develop targeted nutrition interventions with higher protein targets for those experiencing muscle loss related to chronic diseases, including cancer.