The Importance of Additional Protein to Benefit More From Training During and After Hospitalization

The purpose of the study is to investigate if an increased protein intake, in the form of a protein-enriched, milk-based supplement, can enhance the beneficial effect of resistance training, offered during hospitalization and 12 weeks post discharge, in older patients. This will in part be evaluated from measures of muscle strength, muscle mass and physical functioning. Also, the study population's acceptance of the intervention product will be assessed along with measures related to 'cost-effectiveness'. A sub-study will be performed in a sub-group (n=30) to investigate if bio-impedance analysis (BIA) correlates with Dual-Energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) at single time points, and to see if it is possible to track changes in lean body mass. In addition, the reliability of the bio-impedance analyzer will be evaluated. Also, the prevalence and classification of sarcopenia will be assessed at baseline, and correlations to nutritional status will be investigated (n=120).