Is Extra Protein Enough to Preserve Muscle With Aging?

A new clinical trial finds that RDA for protein may be sufficient.

Protein is essential to good health. You need it to make hair, blood, enzymes and antibodies—and, of course, muscle. The problem: With aging we tend to gradually lose muscle size, strength and function—a relatively common condition called sarcopenia. It may seem like a no brainer to boost your dietary intake of protein to help prevent sarcopenia and the frailty and increased risk of falls it can lead to.

Fatigue in Older Adults? It’s Probably Not Low Iron

Decades ago, TV commercials for Geritol cautioned viewers about “iron-poor, tired blood,” helping to create a misconception that if you feel worn-out and fatigued, you could reverse it by taking an iron supplement.

New Findings on Genes and Fish Consumption

A study combining data on more than 86,000 people in the US and Europe found only weak connections between genetics and levels of consumption of seafood and omega-3 fatty acids. Instead, environmental and personal factors, such as availability of fish and individual food preferences, may play a bigger role in how much fish people consume.

MIND Diet for Better Brain Aging

Does a healthy eating pattern preserve brain function with aging? An important new study hopes to provide clues.

Currently available medical treatments for age-related cognitive decline and Alzheimer’s disease have had limited success. Adopting a healthy diet and lifestyle has been among the most consistent recommendations to maintain brain health over the long term. Some studies have linked an overall healthy dietary pattern to less chance of experiencing age-related decline in memory and other cognitive skills.

Good News for Quinoa Fans

Latin Americans have cultivated quinoa, a nutritious seed, for thousands of years. However, newer consumers of the “golden grain” may detect subtle bitter notes in cooked quinoa—mainly because of substances in the outer husk or bran of the seed called saponins.

Walking: Key To Staying Active and Independent

Walking is a safe and effective way to get regular physical activity. It offers a wide range of important health benefits.

Did you get your 10,000 steps today? Many people have adopted this daily walking goal to obtain the recommended amount of physical activity. The 10,000-steps-a-day number comes from the Japanese brand name of a pedometer manufactured in the 1960s, the “10,000 steps meter.” In the Fitbit era, counting daily steps remains appealing to many people as a source of motivation.

Salmon with Peas and Garlic