The Power of Protein

"You are what you eat".....and here's why:

> every 3 months, your body produces a new skeleton
> every 6 weeks, all of the cells are replaced in your liver
> every 5 days, you have a new stomach lining
> 98% of atoms in your body are replaced within one year

In order for your body to constantly be replacing and generating new cells you need
enough protein. And if you are physically active, even more protein is needed. And if you are over age 50, you need even MORE protein!

As we get older, we have less total body protein due to a decrease in skeletal muscle and less efficient use of protein by our body. Less protein will cause impaired wound healing, loss of skin elasticity and inability to fight infection.
Sarcopenia is an age-related loss of muscle mass, strength and function that affects 30% of people over age 60. This condition can limit older adults' daily physical activities, increase risk of chronic diseases, including cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes, and reduce their quality of life.

Resistance training can only increase muscle mass if there is enough protein readily available to repair and rebuild muscle fibers that are broken down with exercise. The best way to have a net gain in muscle mass is to consume WHEY PROTEIN
within 30 minutes after strength training and to consume 20% of your total daily calories in protein-rich foods. It is very possible and likely that women who exercise regularly but do not consume enough protein, will actually lose muscle.

Whey protein is the best source of protein that is complete in all amino acids. Whey is better at stimulating muscle protein synthesis and muscle growth during the recovery period because its amino acide profile is almost identical to that of our skeletal muscle. Whey protein has little to no fat or carbohydrates, is low in calories and easily digested. It also contains components that help stimulate the release of two appetite-suppressing hormones for a greater impact on satiety and weight control. Whey protein helps to maintain a healthy immune system by increasing the levels of glutathione, an anti-oxidant required for a healthy immune system. And exercise may reduce glutathione levels.

I am always reminding my members about the importance of protein, especially whey, but unfortunately I don't think too many bother to follow through. I guess women still consider protein supplements a "man thing". But I am persistant!

ps The Blender Bottle is the BEST way to shake up a quick protein drink. And
for blending a smoothie I love my magic bullet!