The study focused exclusively on adults 80 and older, a group with very different dietary requirements than younger adults. As people age, the body goes through significant physiological changes. Energy expenditure decreases, and losses in muscle mass, bone density, and appetite are common. Together, these changes increase the risk of malnutrition and frailty.
Most evidence for the health benefits of diets that exclude meat comes from studies of younger adults rather than frail older populations. Some research suggests older non-meat eaters face a higher risk of fractures due to lower calcium and protein intake.
In later life, nutritional priorities shift. Rather than focusing on preventing long-term diseases, the goal becomes maintaining muscle mass, preventing weight loss and ensuring every mouthful delivers plenty of nutrients. Study finds vegetarians over 80 less likely to reach 100 -The Conversation. https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/02/260225081214.htm “Study finds vegetarians over 80 less likely to reach 100.” ScienceDaily. (accessed February 27, 2026).
Story Source:
Materials provided by The Conversation. Original written by Chloe Casey, Lecturer in Nutrition and Behaviour, Bournemouth University. Note: Content may be edited for style and length.
lifeunderwriter.net 
How much protein does a 80 year-old need? Per day?
Most research I’ve seen is 1.0 to 1.2 gm per kg daily. I’ve seen the upper limit as high as 1.6 gms protein per kg of weight. I personally shoot for 25 gms per meal, knowing that my snacking (nuts) tosses in extra protein.
Thank you! What nuts do you snack on?
Peanuts mostly, peanut butter, cashews, and less often walnuts, pecans, almonds. Lately, it’s been a nut mix.
Do you buy salted or unsalted, roasted or raw? If roasted, dry, roasted, or roasted in oil?
Peanuts dry honey roasted, JIF PB creamy, cashews roasted/salted, walnuts raw. I’ve been snacking on a nut mix from a place in Fort Worth TX https://vendingnutco.com/
Thank you!