Go “green” to STOP muscle weakness?
They say age is just a number…
But “getting old” often means you’re not as STRONG as you once were.
And while it’s perfectly normal to lose some strength, it doesn’t mean you have to succumb to age-related ‘weakness’ and stop doing the things you love.
In fact, according to research, the secret to stopping age-related muscle weakness is as simple as going “green.”
Let me explain.
According to a study published in the Journal of Nutrition, eating just one cup of leafy GREEN vegetables every day can boost muscle function…
Especially as you age!
This is important for seniors because poor muscle function is linked to greater risk of falls and fractures and is considered a key benchmark of general health and wellbeing.
So, what’s the secret behind green veggies and staying strong?
Leafy green vegetables are rich in natural nitrates, which help maintain optimal limb strength… especially in your lower body.
In fact, researchers found that folks who ate a diet rich in nitrates had 11% stronger lower limb strength compared to those who did not consume as many green leafy veggies.
But that’s not all…
They also found that folks who ate their greens walked 4% faster!
So which vegetables are best for helping you stay strong?
My go-to green veggie is spinach. Spinach is a great source of natural nitrates and is extremely versatile.
Spinach can be the base of a lunch or dinner salad… sautéed in olive oil as a side dish… or even added to smoothies.
If the taste of these vegetables isn’t your cup of tea, you can also find vegetable extracts from reputable vitamin retailers for around $20 per bottle.
If you are concerned about your overall strength or feel like you may be at risk of falling, be sure to have a conversation with your doctor.
To aging gracefully,
Sarah Reagan
Sources:
ScienceDaily. “Green leafy vegetables essential for muscle strength.” https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2021/03/210324132309.htm


