Protein drinks CAN boost old muscles

Protein-based drinks similar to those used by gym-goers can build muscle strength and fight sarcopenia (age-related muscle loss), say researchers at McMaster University in Canada.

they gave 49 men aged over 70 either a drink that contained whey protein and vitamin d, or a placebo drink.

the participants had the drink once daily for six weeks without exercising; then for a further three months while also doing interval training twice a week.

those in the protein drink group gained more muscle mass — roughly as much as they would usually have lost over a year — even before exercising. Having the drink with exercise further increased muscle strength.