(WFN) Studies show that adding supplemental protein to the diet can be beneficial for aging baby boomers with a range of health issues. Because protein plays so many key roles in our body, we must keep our protein intake adequate. According to Lori Drummond, RD, LD, a clinical dietician with Holmes Regional Medical Center in Melbourne, Florida, “Generally speaking, older people aren’t getting enough protein even though their needs are not as high as they once were.”
As we mature, our physiological processes slow down and therefore extra attention must be placed on them in order to avoid the problems associated with aging. Simply put, as we age our bodies are in need of greater upkeep. This is especially true with active adults who frequently exercise or participate in sports. It is even more significant for those who are on a weight loss or doctor prescribed diet. According to Drummond, “Over 50, there is usually a change in diet and a loss of muscle mass accordingly. Energy needs are usually lower but the proportionate amount of dietary protein has to change to insure the body is getting what it requires. Protein intake from meals may not be sufficient either and there are other issues such as the fats and additives in meats that aren’t good for you. As a dietician my approach is to encourage patients to get the protein needed from whole food sources but that’s not always possible. If you can’t you need a good, all-natural protein supplement.”
In addition, many people only get their adequate share of protein intake at one meal during the day. Studies now show that distributing protein intake more evenly through the day is more likely to provide a greater 24 hour protein anabolic response, meaning that fuel burning and recovery will be enhanced. According to a study cited at www.NutritionandMetabolism.com, dietary patterns that provide adequate protein at only one meal produce an anabolic response only after that meal. This is a critical factor for protection of lean tissues during weight loss or to prevent age-related sarcopenia and osteoporosis. In other words, if you consume proper protein levels only at one meal you’re only getting the benefit of these natural proteins in the short time frame after the meal, but your body is burning and craving more protein during the rest of the day and night. Eating large quantities of protein based foods like chicken and eggs may not be convenient or desirable and this is where a tasty protein shake can act as a responsible meal substitute.
Protein deficiencies can be overcome with supplementation but here’s where it gets tricky, as almost all protein supplements come from synthetic sources or use sugars and additives that can cause severe and unpleasant side effects. Ingredients such as sucrose, high fructose corn syrup, dextrose or maltodextrin are widely used in protein drinks to ill effect. Also, these supplemental formulas use mostly protein from whey, which can have an adverse allergic reaction from those with even the slightest lactose intolerance. These unwanted side effects can include bloating, indigestion, constipation and cramping.
Read the labels of any protein supplements before you buy. Make sure they are all natural and contain no unnatural sugars or additives like maltodextrin or sucrose. A microprocessed blend without these additives will not only replenish protein in the body but will work without those associated side effects.
Visit www.ProteinPowerMix.com to learn more about our all natural proteins.
Tags: baby boomers, best protein, protein, protein supplements
