Muscle loss with age, known as sarcopenia, is a natural but preventable condition. It typically begins after age 30 and accelerates after age 60. The causes are multifactorial and include:

• Reduced physical activity and resistance exercise
• Hormonal changes (e.g., lower testosterone, growth hormone, estrogen)
• Chronic inflammation and oxidative stress
• Decreased protein intake or poor digestion of protein
• Insulin resistance and chronic diseases (e.g., diabetes, heart disease)
• Neurological decline impacting motor function and movement

Effects of Age-Related Muscle Loss:

• Reduced muscle strength and mobility
• Increased risk of falls, fractures, and hospitalization
• Decreased metabolic rate, leading to fat gain and metabolic disorders
• Loss of independence and quality of life
• Higher risk of disability and early mortality

Health Benefits of Key Amino Acids and Nutrients to Prevent or Reduce Muscle Wasting.

1. Arginine

Arginine is a semi-essential amino acid that boosts nitric oxide (NO) production.

Benefits for Seniors:

• Enhances blood flow and circulation
• Supports muscle repair and immune function
• May improve exercise performance and endurance
• Promotes wound healing and tissue repair

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2. BCAAs (Branched-Chain Amino Acids):

BCAAs (Leucine, Isoleucine, Valine). These are essential amino acids directly involved in muscle protein synthesis.

Benefits for Seniors:

• Stimulate muscle growth and reduce muscle breakdown
• Leucine in particular activates mTOR, a key pathway in building muscle
• May help preserve lean muscle mass during inactivity or illness
• Reduce fatigue and improve recovery after physical activity

3. Creatine Monohydrate

Creatine is found naturally in muscle cells, Creatine helps produce ATP, the energy currency of cells.

Benefits for Seniors:

• Increases muscle strength and power
• Enhances cognitive performance and may protect brain health
• Supports muscle maintenance when combined with resistance training
• May aid in bone health and prevent frailty

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Why Seniors Don’t Digest Protein Well

• As we age, our internal enzyme production drops dramatically, especially proteases produced in the pancreas. Enzymes act as catalysts, speeding up the digestion process of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats.
• Chronic medication use: Especially antacids, proton pump inhibitors, and antibiotics.
• Age-related gut changes: Reduced gut motility and microbial diversity.

Consequences of Poor Digestion

• Inadequate absorption of essential amino acids
• Muscle wasting due to insufficient protein utilization
• Digestive discomfort, bloating, or malnutrition even with a "normal" diet

Digestive Enzymes

Digestive enzymes are crucial proteins that break down food into smaller molecules for absorption. They act as catalysts, speeding up the digestion process of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. Specifically, amylase breaks down carbohydrates, lipase breaks down fats, and protease breaks down proteins. 
Role: Break down food into absorbable nutrients.

Benefits of Supplementing with Enzymes:

• Improves protein digestion and absorption
• Reduces bloating and gas
• Enhances nutrient bioavailability, supporting muscle repair and immune function
• Supports individuals with enzyme insufficiency, common in aging

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Glutathione

Glutathione is a powerful intracellular antioxidant produced by the liver. Glutathione is a tripeptide, which means it is a molecule made up of three amino acids: cysteine, glutamic acid, and glycine. 

Benefits of Supplementing with Glutathione:

• Protects cells from oxidative stress and inflammation
• Supports detoxification in the liver
• May slow cellular aging and preserve mitochondrial function
• Plays a role in immune defense and may enhance nutrient absorption indirectly
• Low levels are associated with chronic diseases and frailty