The FDA Just Banned Red Dye No.

3: The Future of Processed Foods

Is Red Wine Any Healthier for You Than White Wine?

Proffee Is the Hottest New Beverage Trendbut Should You Really Be Adding Protein to Your Coffee?

alt

Theres no denying it: Protein is massively important for your health.

However, theres another surprising protein benefit: it can help with healthy aging.

In fact, the body actually requiresmoreprotein as you get older.

alt

Boston-based registered dietitian

Why, you ask?

Heres what you should know.

In turn, increased protein intake in older populations can potentially promote overall well-being.

An image of four wine glasses on a wooden surface

Whats more, the need for adequate protein consumption is especially important among women as they reach menopause.

But adequate protein intake isnt just important once you reach an older age.

Rather, its important in every stage in life.

Young woman mixing ice coffee

These changes, Jones adds, includedecreased lean muscle mass, whichcan impact longevity.

Staying on top of protein intake is also important in maintaining muscle mass, especially for women.

For older women, however, one of the biggest drivers is menopause-related hormonal changes.

Cropped shot of young woman shopping in the dairy section of a supermarket. She is reading the nutrition label on a container of fresh organic healthy natural yoghurt

Boston-based registered dietitian

Its also worth noting that men can also experience sarcopenia.

So, how do I calculate how much protein I need?

(Or, you’re able to always try thisprotein intake calculatorfor easy and convenient guidance.)

Two cups with coffee and green tea on a beige background.

Generally, the protein recommendation for adults is to consume0.8 grams of protein per kilogram of bodyweight.

That said, more active women should be getting1 to 1.2 grams of protein per kilogram.

For context, that translates into 54 to 68 grams of protein per day for a 150-pound woman.

red pigment in a wooden spoon

Either way, thats…a lot of protein.

If you get the all-clear, Dewsnap recommends breaking down the increase to make it feel more digestible.

For instance,

What are the best sources of protein for these unique needs?

One large, whole egg contains aroundsix grams of protein.

One large, whole egg contains around six grams of protein.

TL;DR: Bulking up on protein isnt just for the gym.

Just talk with your doctor about the specific amounts you should aim for to ensure youre doing it healthily.

Protein Consumption and the Elderly: What Is the Optimal Level of Intake?.Nutrientsvol.

2016, doi:10.3390/nu8060359

Karvonen-Gutierrez, Carrie, and Catherine Kim.

2016, doi:10.3390/healthcare4030042

Hruby, Adela et al.

Protein Intake and Functional Integrity in Aging: The Framingham Heart Study Offspring.The journals of gerontology.

Series A, Biological sciences and medical sciencesvol.

Got it, you’ve been added to our email list.