Those guys in the gym slurping down their protein shakes might be onto something.
This is according to a study done by Italian researchers and published in the journal Cell Metabolism.*
Protein is a building block for our muscles, bones, cartilage, skin, hair and blood, and adding more to our diet could possibly help us live longer, the study reveals.
Italian researchers from Brescia University, Professor Enzo Nisoli and his colleagues, found that adding protein powder to the diet of mice enabled the rodents to live 12 percent longer than mice fed a “normal” diet. This research hasn’t been tested on humans, but it would translate to the equivalent of living 10 years longer in humans.
The mice were given a protein “cocktail” that included the amino acids leucine, isoleucine and valine, three of the 20 that make up proteins. These are sold in health food stores and on the Internet, and are used by bodybuilders to maintain muscle and endurance.
“Our study offers a rationale for deeply exploring the role of amino acids in prevention and control of age-related disorders in humans,” the study states. “I think our data warrants a recommendation that middle-aged people start taking these supplements,” says Professor Nisoli.
For a quick and easy protein shake, combine one scoop of vanilla protein powder with four ounces of milk and four ounces of water (or, if you prefer, eight ounces of water) in a blender. Add a half cup of frozen blueberries and half cup of frozen strawberries. Blend and enjoy.
As always, consult your healthcare provider before starting any supplementation program.
* Source: Cell Metabolism.
Read more posts by Jackie Silver, Jackie is a contributing blogger for JenningsWire.
