Yes, strong muscles may lead to longer years!
We use them each day, they help us walk, stand, lift, talk and even eat.
Having weak muscles also increases our risk for falls, fractures, chronic conditions and a shorter life.
Photo:Getty Images
Thats why its so important that we do everything we can to maintain our muscle mass.
The more muscle mass we have, the more calories we burn at rest.
Studies show that maintaining a healthy weight is also critical for increasing longevity.
As we age, our muscles naturally decrease in mass and in strength.
Supports Your Entire Body
Maintaining our muscle mass supports other systems within our body, too.
Other body systems, including our immune system, slow down and weakenas we age.
However,plant-based foodslike tofu, beans, lentils, nuts and seeds are also great protein sources.
For a 150-pound person, this translates to 89 to 123 grams of protein per day.
Talk to your health care provider or a registered dietitian to identify the right amount of protein for you.
Need some high-protein meal inspo?
Get your mouth watering with theseHigh-Protein Breakfast Ideas.
Be Physically Active
Ever heard the saying Use it or lose it?
Well, that applies to our muscles.
They will likely shrink and become weak if we aren’t using them.
Strong mucscles can also help prevent falls, a major risk factor for age-related decline.
The key is to find a form ofexercise you enjoy.
so you can make your activity regular, attempt to make it fun!
Dont call it exercise.
Make it dancing, walking your dog, hiking or going to the gym, says Taub-Dix.
Every push, pull or lift you do contributes to building vital muscle.
ThePhysical Activity Guidelines for Americansrecommends shooting for two weekly strength-training sessions that target all major muscle groups.
Finally, double-check you are getting enough shut-eye.
