Adequate amount of protein intake is something that is essential to everyone in order to prevent muscle mass, especially as you age. As inevitable as ageing is, it does not only refer to how the skin appears over time.
The aging process also applies to the changes in body composition, bone health and hormonal changes.
So how do you age gracefully without risking your overall health?
First and foremost, pay attention to what you feed your body. It is not without a reason that having a healthy, balanced approach to diet is suggested at all times. And secondly, pay attention to your protein intake. As you age, the protein requirements of the body also increase. What happens with ageing is, muscle mass starts to deplete and its place fat mass increases. This is called sarcopenia. And the only way to keeping up your body’s muscle mass is by consuming more of good quality protein and exercising on a daily basis.
How does whey help?
Protein powders are an excellent way to help complete a day’s protein need without fussing too much over your diet. Whey protein in particular is an excellent source of protein, especially for those over the age of 30.
With a complete amino acid profile, it is rich in BCAAs particularly leucine- which is considered as an anabolic amino acid. BCAAs are not only helpful for athletes, but also are responsible for appropriate dermal collagen protein synthesis. This collagen maintains the elasticity and health of the skin.
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Another benefit of taking whey protein is that it prevents osteoporosis contrary to myths that say it leads to weak bones. The presence of lactoferrin, a potent regulator of bone synthesis and fortifies bone thus, preventing osteoporotic fractures. Studies show that adults who consume low levels of protein are more likely to suffer significant bone density loss as compared to those who consume more protein.
Additionally, the glutathione- antioxidant produced by the body to ward off damaging free radicals and toxins- is synthesized to a lower extent with age. However, the complete amino acid profile in whey helps keep glutathione synthesis up and slows does cell disintegration.
Protein has always been in the good books for its major role in boosting metabolism. If your metabolism rises, you burn more calories. When you digest food, the processing of it all leads to an increased metabolism; This is known as thermogenic effect of food or thermogenesis. And the thermogenic effect of protein is far greater than carbohydrate as it takes more time to digest protein. And in this process, you remain full for longer and also end up burning more calories which makes it a win-win situation for you.
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Takeaway note:
In conclusion, the benefits of whey protein only grow more significant with age, especially for those over 30. If you are someone who has been waiting to turn around their diet and lifestyle for a healthy ageing process, get some exercise and don’t shy away from getting that share of protein on your plate (or glass!).
Add OZIVA Protein & Herbs Shake to Your Diet if your diet is lacking in proteins.
If you want a detailed nutrition consultation, drop us a mail at nutrition@oziva.in or call us on 9769298556 and our experts will help you with your fitness goal
Last modified: August 11, 2017
