What type of dietary intervention may be particularly beneficial for older adults recovering from surgery?

A high protein diet is particularly beneficial for older adults recovering from surgery due to its essential role in healing and recovery processes. Protein is crucial for tissue repair, muscle rebuilding, and immune function, all of which are vital after surgical procedures. As aging can lead to muscle loss and decreased protein synthesis, providing sufficient protein helps counteract these effects and supports recovery.

Additionally, older adults often experience increased protein needs post-surgery, as wound healing and recovery place greater demands on the body. A high protein diet helps ensure that these needs are met, promoting better outcomes and potentially reducing the length of recovery time. It can also help maintain muscle mass, which is critical for functional recovery and overall well-being in older adults.

Other dietary interventions, such as high carbohydrate or low fat diets, may not provide the specific benefits needed for recovery from surgery, as they do not emphasize the importance of protein in tissue healing and overall recovery. A calcium-enriched diet, while beneficial for bone health, does not specifically address the immediate nutritional needs related to healing and recovery post-surgery. Thus, the focus on a high protein diet supports the unique nutritional needs of older adults in this context.