Protein Powder: Yay or Nay for Midlife Women?
It seems like everything has protein in it these days (even water!) as we try to hit our protein goals and more importantly, build muscle.
I used to make a protein shake every morning and then I stopped.
While I do believe in fasting, intermittent fasting, and have patients who do very well with that, I was lacking fuel that I needed. I’d be hungry by mid-afternoon and over-snack.
Especially now that I'm using FasterWay for workouts and meal plans, I need more fuel.
I’m someone who has a hard time building muscle and this gets even harder as we age, while at the same time it's incredibly important.
The FasterWay meal plan is whole foods based, with the exception of the protein shakes. To me, this is a balance I’m willing to strike considering the variety of nutrients, ease of preparation (and no planning on our part!), and deliciousness of the meal plan. We simply buy the groceries with the list provided and prep the meals. They’re not fancy recipes or exotic ingredients which is a plus for our household.
The workouts also require zero planning from me. Instead of wondering what workout I'll do, trying to motivate myself to do it, and making up my own routine, I just get to my gym and press Play in the FasterWay app. It's full of heart rate increasing and muscle-building moves. I’m still early in the process, but so far I like the ease and motivation.
With more muscle building, I find myself getting more hungry. That's why they make a robust meal plan!
Why Protein?
Protein is essential for bodily functions and muscle-building. Muscle building is important for aging well and aging with health for many reasons.
Muscle:
Keeps us sensitized to insulin (metabolically healthy)
Keeps us moving
Protects our bones (protects from fragility)
Why Equip Protein?
As far as protein powders go, there are a lot of choices. Too many. Since it's a processed food, I want to find the cleanest option. That’s why I use Equip Foods.
Here's what makes the difference for me in using Equip Foods:
Beef protein: this particular brand makes a complete protein, contains collagen, and is non-dairy. Equip contains nine essential amino acids. Many plant-based protein and other beef protein brands can be missing some of these. Whey protein, the most common protein on the market, is dairy-based which is why many people will have stomach upset and even acne as side effects.
Clean: even organic produce will contain heavy metals because they are found in the earth. Equip tests for these and pesticides like glyphosate. Only heat and water are used to make it, instead of chemicals.
If you’re lacking motivation or structure like I was, either in meal-planning, workouts, or both, I recommend FasterWay. My Signature Membership patients will have the opportunity to opt-in to the program with a nurse coach.
See More About Membership Options Here
To use the cleanest and most complete protein product on the market, try Equip Foods here or use code NAZZARO.
What if I'm Insulin Resistant?
If you've been told you have insulin resistance, pre-diabetes, or you just suspect it yourself, you may need to approach this differently.
Utilizing protein is key, but more specifically protein without added sugar (like many other protein powders have) and pairing with fiber (a key in FasterWay).
In addition to building muscle, walking particularly after eating is a great way to improve insulin sensitivity.
