What’s the first thing that comes to your mind when you hear “Whey Protein”? Most probably bodybuilding and a workout supplement, right? The benefits of whey protein go far beyond its usage as a supplement for workouts, despite the conventional belief that it only has such benefits. It’s no longer accurate to say that protein powder is predominantly utilized by bodybuilders and athletes as a dietary supplement to refuel and recuperate after strength training.
In addition to aiding in weight management and muscular development, it has been shown to slow the effects of aging. Glutathione is one of the naturally occurring free radical scavengers in the human body, and whey has been investigated to maximize the production of this enzyme.
As the glutathione levels reduce in the body due to aging, it may cause neurological illness, lowered immunity, and various other age-related disorders.
In addition to being a source of protein, whey, created from the liquid portion of milk that separates during the making of cheese, is also a good source of immunoglobulins, branched-chain amino acids, and bio-active protein subfractions. All these compounds explain why whey protein is becoming beneficial for elderly citizens.
Whey protein helps in fighting the aging process in the body, and seniors might have to consider taking this supplement to slow down their aging process. There are also vegan alternatives for whey for those who do not eat animal products. Here are some anti-aging benefits of whey powder;
- Whey protein helps prevent Osteoporosis.
Osteoporosis is a medical disorder that causes bones to become weak and more prone to breaking. People may find it hard to maintain healthy bones and muscles as they age. Elderly people who consume less protein are more likely to experience severe bone density loss, especially in the hips and spine. Eating a diet high in protein is one of the simplest methods to improve bone health and build muscle.
Whey protein is one of the few foods, except protein from meat, with all nine essential amino acids, which are known to be the building blocks of the human body. Leucine, one of these branched-chain amino acids, promotes muscle protein synthesis and aids muscle growth. It can greatly help those with specific illnesses linked to muscle loss.
- With a higher level of glutathione, the immune system becomes stronger.
Whey protein contains glutathione, a tri-peptide involved in immunity and serving as an antioxidant. Glutathione, produced by your cells from amino acids, strengthens the telomeres in our DNA, which are known to degrade as we age.
Whey protein is healthier than a glutathione supplement because it possesses the highest concentrations of all naturally occurring glutathione precursors, such as glutamylcysteine, lactoferrin, immunoglobulins, and active peptides. These compounds help boost the immune system, making them stronger and ready to fight diseases.
- It helps fight some life-threatening diseases.
Our bodies are more susceptible to life-threatening illnesses as we become older. A significant risk factor for diabetes is being overweight, and whey protein consumption has been shown to encourage weight loss. It promotes insulin release and can lower glycemic levels by over 10%.
Whey protein may also be useful in lowering the risk of heart disease and stroke. Whey protein can aid in treating some of the main ailments that affect the elderly when combined with the proper diet.
- Whey protein helps boost metabolism.
Whey protein has a better capacity to increase muscle metabolism since it includes 50 to 75 percent more leucine than other proteins. In addition to keeping muscle mass when you restrict calories, this can also enhance lean muscle mass. It speeds up your resting metabolic rate, or how quickly you burn calories while lying still or sleeping.
Using more whey protein in your food products as a substitute for eggs, dairy, heavy creams, or butter can reduce fat and calorie content and aid your metabolism.
- Whey protein promotes good skin, hair, and nails.
Whey protein does not only help you look nice on the outside but also feel good within. Protein is necessary for the development of healthy skin and nails. Whey protein contains amino acids and collagen that support the suppleness and firmness of the skin.
Your nutrition might substantially impact how full and healthy your head of hair is. Protein is a component of hair; therefore, it makes sense that nutritional deficits, particularly a lack of protein, could cause hair loss. Consuming large amounts of protein can strengthen hair follicles, which can help you get a full head of strong and healthy hair.
