The Role of Amino Acids in Combating Sarcopenia

As we age, our muscle mass begins to decline. This natural process is known as sarcopenia and can lead to an inability to do everyday tasks such as walking up stairs or standing up from a seated position. While regular exercise helps combat this problem, adding certain amino acids to your diet has been shown to help slow down the progression of sarcopenia. Amino acids play a crucial role in many biological functions, including muscle metabolism and maintenance.

Of particular relevance are branched chain amino acids (BCAA), which are known for their anti-inflammatory and anti-catabolic properties. Studies have found that supplementing with BCAAs was associated with improved muscle strength and function in elderly individuals.

Glutamine is another amino acid that plays a role in preventing sarcopenia due to its effect on protein synthesis and increasing muscle strength. Glutamine helps protect against skeletal muscle breakdown while also promoting healthier joints, ligaments, and tendons. Studies have shown that glutamine supplementation led to a significant improvement in mobility among elderly individuals who had suffered a stroke.

Arginine is necessary for blood vessel health, cellular energy production and tissue regeneration, making it another key player in fighting off sarcopenia. Arginine supplements have been linked to improved cardiovascular function, increased bone density and reduced body fat levels in the elderly population, suggesting they may be beneficial for delaying the effects of aging on muscle mass and functionality.

Finally, glycine is an important amino acid for maintaining healthy cells and preserving lean body mass. Glycine can help increase insulin sensitivity so that glucose can be used more efficiently by muscles during exercise. These metabolic benefits can support better muscular performance among those affected by sarcopenia, allowing them to remain active into their later years of life.

Including these essential amino acids into your diet can help reduce the effects of aging on your muscles while keeping you healthy throughout your golden years. A balanced diet coupled with regular physical activity and supplementation with Tea Gardens Aminos+  will keep you feeling young even as time continues to march on!