In today's August 15, 2010 newsletter . . .
- Weight Training Builds Senior Muscle
- Evolution of the Smoothie - addendum
Weight Training
Builds Senior Muscle
The miracle of weight training is that it slows muscle tissue loss associated with aging. In fact, it is even possible to regain muscle that has been lost. Cardiovascular training and stretching have their place in a balanced fitness plan. But it is progressive resistance exercise that builds muscle, allowing us to stay young, active, and independent for as long as possible. Nothing else comes close to being as effective.
Inactive men and women over age 30 slowly lose muscle tissue every year. At about age 50 this loss of muscle (and strength and endurance) starts happening faster. And after age 65, it accelerates even more. Scientists have a name for it. They call it "sarcopenia.” It is from the Greek, meaning “poverty of flesh.” It is what we see in frail, elderly people who are bent over from a combination of osteoporosis and sarcopenia, the wasting away of muscle tissue . . . full report here.
Evolution of the Smoothie - addendum
In the previous newsletter (August 1, 2010), I went over my history in making healthful protein shakes. I won’t repeat it here, but you can easily find it and the recipe by scrolling to the end of this page and clicking on "The Back Issues."
When listing the ingredients of my current recipe, I left out any brand names, and I’ve been asked to provide them. But before I do, let me say that I’m sure there are many other reliable brands, and some of mine may not be available where you happen to live.
Here are brands that I use . . .- Mixed Berries : Rader Farms (frozen) and sold at Costco.
- Flax Seeds: We buy ours in bulk at a natural foods store. We grind them in a small coffee grinder we bought at Starbucks.
- Nonfat Yogurt: Nancy’s brand. It contains several different kinds of stomach friendly bacteria (probiotics) and zero sweeteners of any kind.
- Whey Protein: BioChem brand. We get plain (unflavored) 100% pure whey. No sweeteners.
- Soy Milk: Westsoy brand. Organic and unsweetened.
If I add some fresh cranberries, we get them at any nearby food market. Same thing if I add any spinach leaves. We wash both before adding, even if they say “pre-washed.”
I also mentioned taking a fish oil capsule along with my shake. If you aren’t regularly eating wild fatty fish such as salmon, sardines or trout, ask your doctor about taking fish oil. If you do take it, don’t skimp, buying on price alone. Some oils have been found to contain lead and/or other harmful substances. You want a quality, independent lab tested product. Personally, I take Vital Choice Wild Alaskan Sockeye Salmon Oil. It is recommended by some very well-known physicians. It is tested and certified by NFS and the Marine Stewardship Council. I buy it directly from the company.
Hope this helps.
You've probably heard about the tremendous benefits of weight training and how you can retain -- or even reclaim -- the attributes of youth . . . Discover the way with . . .
Gray Iron: A Fitness Guide for Senior Men and Women
Newsletter Policy
The Gray Iron Fitness Newsletter is a free publication sent twice monthly to subscribers. The purpose is to provide honest and realistic fitness information for people age 50 and above.
I have never been paid or received compensation of any kind to write a positive review or endorse a product. If I say that I personally use a product or service, it is because I find value in it and have paid for it with my own money.
Like newspapers, magazines and television, the newsletter and web site contain advertising and some affiliate marketing links. I receive a commission when people buy the advertised products or services.
The newsletter and web site provide information to help users establish and maintain a fitness lifestyle. But fitness information is not the same as fitness advice, which is the application of exercise and dietary practices to an individual's specific circumstances. Therefore, always consult with your physician for assurance that fitness information, and your interpretation of it, is appropriate for you. Your comments or questions are always appreciated. Sincerely,
Logan Franklin
The Gray Iron Fitness Newsletter
www.senior-exercise-central.com
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