Why Women Over 50 Need To Eat More Protein With Their Meals
Bodybuilders need high amounts of protein because they build muscle.
But a high protein diet is important for older adults, too. No matter your age or level of fitness, you also need protein. Your body relies on protein to function. Women over 50, especially need a high protein diet to maintain:
Overall health
Muscle strength
Balance, agility and resilience
Why do We Need a High Protein Diet?
Protein is one of the foundational nutrients that make up your body. Every cell in your body relies on protein to function including:
Skin
Hair
Nails
Muscle
Bones
Internal organs
Protein is essential for healing, building and repairing cells and body tissue. You need protein to:
Heal from injuries
Keep your fluid levels in balance
Recover from surgery or illness
Maintain healthy vision
Balance your hormones and digestive enzymes
Without protein, your body starts to break down muscle mass and bone strength
Research has found that as women get older, are not able to use protein as easily as younger women, so their bodies may need more protein to meet its needs.
A diet high in protein can protect you from losing muscle, and muscle is important because you require the use of your muscles for everything you do.
Strong bones and muscles allow you to get out of a chair, walk to the store, do yard work, go dancing, or play with your grandchildren. Even simple tasks like pulling on your socks and getting out of the shower are made easier by healthy and strong muscles.
As we age, it is normal to lose muscle mass, but a loss of strength can also cause you to fall. You may also be more susceptible to illness and injury.
The National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey found that older adults were not getting enough protein, with 4-6% of women over 50 are not getting the recommended amounts of protein.