Native Whey Induces Similar Adaptation to Strength Training as Milk, despite Higher Levels of Leucine, in Elderly Individuals

Abstract

Background: Large amounts of protein (40 g) or supplementing suboptimal servings of protein with leucine are able to overcome the anabolic resistance in elderly muscle. Our aim was to compare the effects of supplementation of native whey, high in leucine, with milk on gains in muscle mass and strength during a period of strength training, in elderly individuals. Methods: In this double-blinded, randomized, controlled study, a total of 30 healthy men and women received two daily servings of 20 g of either milk protein or native whey, during an 11-week strength training intervention. Muscle strength, lean mass, m. vastus lateralis thickness, muscle fiber area, and resting and post-exercise phosphorylation of p70S6K, 4E-BP1, and eEF-2 were assessed prior to and after the intervention period. Results: Muscle mass and strength increased, by all measures applied in both groups (p < 0.001), with no differences between groups (p > 0.25). p70S6K phosphorylation increased (~1000%, p < 0.045) 2 h after exercise in the untrained and trained state, with no differences between supplements. Total and phosphorylated mTORC-1 decreased after training. Conclusion: Supplementation with milk or native whey during an 11-week strength training period increased muscle mass and strength similarly in healthy elderly individuals.