(NaturalHealth365) Think whey protein is just for athletes who want to bulk up their muscles? Think again! New studies show that this supplement – commonly used by bodybuilders and athletes – offers some significant anti-aging benefits, too.

A compilation of research reveals that regular use of whey protein can help prevent the loss of muscle mass, stop age-related weight gain, and even prevent heart disease for aging adults.

For example, researchers think that the ability of whey to maximize the production of glutathione – one of the main free radical scavengers in the body – could be responsible for fighting off age-related conditions. Whey also is an excellent source of protein and other nutrients, such as immunoglobulins and amino acids, which also play a part in boosting longevity.

Whey protein boosts muscle mass while preventing muscles from getting weaker

For many aging adults, inadequate nutrition and failing to get enough protein can result in the loss of muscle mass. After age 40, muscle mass generally begins to decline, and once you hit the age of 70, it drops typically around 15% each decade. Loss of muscle mass is such a problem that between 5-13% of individuals over age 60 have wasting bad enough that it increases their risk of disability and falls.

Not only does whey protein offer a protein boost, but it’s also packed with branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs), which are essential to stimulating muscle growth and reducing muscle breakdown. Studies show that supplementing with whey protein helps prevent muscles from getting weaker, with one study showing that supplementing with whey resulted in grip strength improvements.

Whey protein doesn’t just keep muscles from wasting away, but it actually boosts muscle mass. It’s known for increasing lean muscle mass in athletes, and trials have shown that taking whey protein increases skeletal muscle mass in older adults, too – even inactive older adults.

Ending the struggle with age-related weight gain

Whey goes beyond preserving muscle mass. As you grow older, the metabolism slows down, and it’s easier to gain weight. Being overweight or obese only increases the risk of age-related conditions like diabetes and heart disease. However, whey can help, and studies show that it’s effective at fighting fat, making it easier to maintain lean body mass and weight as you age.

Researchers believe that the minerals, proteins, and peptides in whey work in several ways. First, they make you feel full. Whey also helps regulate blood sugar levels and can optimize your lean body mass, and all of these things help you fight age-related weight gain.

Don’t make the mistake of thinking whey protein is only for bodybuilders. Research shows that it’s effective at preventing multiple effects of aging, including the loss of muscle mass and age-related weight gain.

Newer studies even show it can lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart disease.  Bottom line: it’s easy to find and add to your diet, and it’s a powerful tool for increasing longevity.

Editor’s note: In my smoothies, I use LuvByNature Grazing Goat Whey protein – available inside the NaturalHealth365 Store.  Click here to order today.

Sources for this article include:

LifeExtension.com
ScienceDirect.com
ScienceDirect.com
TANDFOnline.com
Wiley.com
ScienceDirect.com