Wednesday, November 12, 2008

Whey Protein and Healthy Aging

When it comes down to healthy aging some of the most important factors include a weight friendly diet, bone health and muscle strength. Muscle loss and bone deterioration are two major concerns for aging people. These two ailments if not treated can lead to various health problems in men and women alike. That is why good nutrition is essential throughout our lives. It does not matter whether you are 30 or 60 years old, good nutrition, such as whey protein, can help you maintain strong muscles and bones during the aging process (especially when combined with an exercise and resistance training program).

A recent study which compared whey protein to casein protein (another type of protein found in milk) proved that older men who consumed whey protein showed greater protein synthesis or growth. The result of greater protein synthesis or protein growth was less muscle loss over time. Around the age of 40 we begin to lose muscle mass and whey protein along with physical activity can help us retain our bone and muscle strength.

Another study proved that elderly people who consumed low levels of protein had a significant loss of bone density in a matter of 4 years. The bone loss was at its highest in the spine and hip area, both of which are needed in top shape in order to maintain healthy aging. What this study shows is that it does not take a long time for our bones to become weak, which is why constant maintenance is essential, if not crucial. And this is not only true for the elderly, but for all of us who don’t consume enough protein and calcium. Therefore, if you wish to keep your muscles and bones strong and healthy, you should increase your calcium and whey protein consumption.

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