The big picture
- Diet groups improved nutrition scores by nearly three points after six months.
- Trial was small with small thinking-score changes; one study is a clue only.
- Adequate protein matters; consult a doctor or dietitian if concerned.
This randomized trial included 105 older adults living at home who were at risk of undernutrition. One group followed a Mediterranean diet with extra protein. A second added home exercise. A third received a healthy-eating leaflet. After six months both diet groups improved nutrition scores by nearly three points and thinking scores by a fraction of a point.
The trial was small and lasted six months. The change in thinking scores was small. One trial is a clue, not a settled answer.
Eating well enough with enough protein is a basic need that can be overlooked later in life. This trial suggests improvement is possible at home. Talk with a doctor or dietitian if appetite or weight is a concern.
Source: our post on X. This article is general information, not medical advice.
