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The Power of Protein During Menopause

by: Dr. Mary Claire Haver
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One of the main reasons changing one’s dietary habits is difficult for most women, especially when approaching or experiencing menopause, is that there is a missing “link” in understanding the importance in healthy eating.

Protein, known as “the building block of life,” which are utilized in every single cell in the body. Proteins create a wide range of hormones in our body, from thyroid to digestive to sex hormones, all of which are essential to our normal bodily functioning. Not to mention proteins are also required for muscle and bone growth, health, and maintenance.

Additionally, lipoproteins, which comprise blood plasma, are made from proteins and act to transport/eliminate cholesterol from the body. There are many other functions of proteins but the bottom line is that they are absolutely essential to normal functioning and a large portion of proteins must be obtained from one’s diet.

Sure, you can read blogs, books, advice, etc. all day long about why it’s important to eat foods that are “good for you,” but why?

  1. Eggs – perhaps one of the most protein-rich, simple foods that are inexpensive and have enough fat to balance your macronutrients. Eggs are rich sources of selenium, vitamin D, B6, B12 and minerals such as zinc, iron and copper.
  2. Full Fat Greek Yogurt – literally packed with twice as much protein as other types of yogurt and additionally contains an excellent source of calcium and probiotics (promoting bone building and gut health respectively)
  3. Swiss Cheese – provides a significant amount of protein compared with other cheeses and is a muscle friendly option
  4. Fish – a fabulous source of protein, but the fatty fish (tuna, salmon, herring, sardines, mussels, mackerel and trout) are also packed with Omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3’s are essential for heart health and decrease inflammation.
  5. Nut Butter – be weary of sugar-content, but naturally-made nut butter leads is a fabulous source of protein, healthy fats AND fiber.
  6. Quinoa – contains all 9 essential amino acids, meaning it has full muscle-building potential – It is also high in fiber, magnesium, B vitamins, iron, potassium, calcium, phosphorus, vitamin E and various beneficial antioxidants
  7. Pumpkin Seeds – not only a good source of protein, but also packed with fiber, magnesium, and a favorable fatty acid profile for heart health.

There are more of course, and I could go on – but the take home message is this: When choosing the proteins for your diet in menopause, look for the ones that can multitask: they should contain not just protein, but also other nutritious ingredients.

Sarcopenia is real – decreasing muscle mass as well as bone density will plague us as we age. Getting adequate amounts of protein as well as weight bearing exercise is not only preventative, but corrective in these diseases.

Article References:

https://www.bodybuilding.com/content/ultimate-list-40-high-protein-foods.html

https://speakingofwomenshealth.com/column/nutrition-tips-during-menopause

https://www.avogel.co.uk/health/menopause/videos/how-much-protein-do-we-really-need-during-menopause/

https://www.webmd.com/fitness-exercise/features/will-eating-more-protein-help-your-body-gain-muscle-faster#1

If you are interested in learning more about the science behind The Galveston Diet, Click Here.

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This blog provides general information and discussion about medicine, health and related subjects. The words and other content provided in this blog, and in any linked materials, are not intended and should not be construed as medical advice. If the reader or any other person has a medical concern, he or she should consult with an appropriately-licensed physician or other health care worker.

Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this blog or in any linked materials. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or emergency room immediately.

The views expressed on this blog and website have no relation to those of any academic, hospital, practice or other institution with which the authors are affiliated.

While the information on the site was prepared to provide accurate information regarding topics related to general and specific health issues, the information contained in the site is made available with the express understanding that neither Dr. Mary Claire Haver, galvestondiet.com, nor the other experts on the site, nor the site itself, nor members of the Site are dispensing medical advice and do not intend any of this information to be used for self-diagnosis or treatment.

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