Allison Aubrey, NPR's food and health correspondent, shares her insights into the vital role of protein for maintaining muscle mass, especially as we age. She discusses how muscle starts to decline after our 30s and the risks involved. Listeners will learn the necessary protein intake based on activity levels, the importance of exercise, and how to avoid deficiencies. Aubrey also highlights diverse protein sources, including plant-based options, and offers practical tips for boosting daily protein intake through tasty foods like Greek yogurt and smoothies.
Maintaining muscle mass is crucial as it peaks in our 30s and declines, posing risks like falls in older individuals.
Consuming adequate protein supports muscle health, with variety from sources like fish, dairy, legumes and plants.
Deep dives
The Importance of Protein for Muscle Health
Maintaining muscle mass is crucial, especially as it peaks in our 30s and then gradually declines. Loss of muscle mass can lead to conditions like sarcopenia, posing serious risks like falls, which are a top cause of injury-related deaths among older individuals. To prevent this decline, it is essential to engage in resistance training exercises and consume sufficient protein to support muscle health.
Understanding Dietary Protein Needs
Protein is vital for replenishing amino acids in the body, and essential amino acids, which the body cannot produce, must be obtained from diet. The recommended protein intake is at least 0.8 grams per kilogram of body weight, with experts suggesting higher amounts for optimal muscle health, especially with aging or increased physical activity. Consuming adequate protein helps repair muscle tissue damage caused by exercise and supports overall tissue health.
Diverse Protein Sources and Planning a Balanced Diet
While meat is a good protein source, other options like fish, dairy products, legumes, and high-protein grains provide variety and can help meet daily protein needs. Plant-based proteins offer nutritious alternatives to animal products, with sources like eggs, nuts, seeds, and vegetables contributing significant protein content. Incorporating protein into meals creatively through salads, smoothies, and grains allows for a balanced and satisfying diet.
Our bodies need protein to maintain muscle. That's important because muscle mass peaks in our 30s and then declines. In this episode, tips about understanding how much protein you really need.