Key Takeaways
- Research suggests adding a daily portion of peanut butter may help support lower-body muscle power in older adults.
- A six-month study of individuals aged 65 and older at risk for falls observed improvements in chair-stand movements.
- Adding peanut butter increased total protein and calorie intake without leading to weight gain in participants.
What the Source Says
Gradual muscle loss can begin in a person's 30s and accelerate after age 50, impacting balance, mobility, and fall risk. Research suggests that practical dietary habits may play a role in maintaining physical function. A six-month randomized controlled trial conducted by Deakin University’s Institute of Physical Activity and Nutrition in Melbourne examined how daily peanut butter intake influences physical movement in older adults.
The study evaluated 108 adults aged 65 and older living in the community who were at risk of falling. One group was asked to eat 43 grams of peanut butter each day—about one and a half standard servings—while the control group avoided nuts and kept their usual eating habits. Both groups maintained their usual physical activity levels.
Researchers evaluated walking speed, balance, grip strength, knee extension, and body composition. Although gait speed did not significantly change, research suggests that participants in the peanut butter group improved their lower-body power, taking less time to complete the Five Times Sit to Stand test compared to the control group. The daily portion provided around 250 calories, 20 grams of fat, and 10 grams of protein, boosting overall diet quality and energy intake without causing weight gain.
Practical Notes
Lower-body power is essential for everyday movements, such as standing up safely or navigating stairs. Including simple, protein-rich foods can be an approachable way to support physical independence alongside regular movement routines.
Be sure to talk to your doctor before making any significant changes to your regular diet or health routine.
Source: healthy aging exercise older adults - BingNews · Published October 10, 2026 · Photo by Maahid Photos on Unsplash
This article is for general information only and is not medical advice. Talk to your doctor before making health decisions.