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Soy protein & branched-chain amino acids

As we age, our muscle and whole-body protein metabolism slows down. (Medical Reference 1) Fortunately, these changes can be offset by exercise, which provides a variety of health benefits for people of any age. However, our bodies require a good source of energy or fuel for exercise to provide its full benefits.

It has been reported that the branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs), leucine, isoleucine, and valine, are oxidized to provide an important energy source during exercise. (Medical Reference 2) In addition, the BCAAs, especially leucine, can enhance protein synthesis after exercise and while at rest (Medical References 3-9) and may help prevent muscle breakdown and soreness associated with exercise. (Medical References 10, 11) In addition to their benefits on protein synthesis and exercise, it has been suggested that BCAA may support better immune function in athletes. (Medical Reference 12)

Soy protein has been shown to be an excellent source of BCAAs. (Medical Reference 13)

With the holidays right around the corner, people are gearing up for one last battle of the bulge before “goodie season” settles in. But fasting, living on lettuce leaves, or excluding entire food groups won't cut it in the long run, because it's just too hard. And the slowed metabolism, bingeing, and self-recrimination that follow can make a weight problem even worse. Losing weight and shaping up for good depends on making some serious (but not unpleasant!) lifestyle changes:

As we grow older and exercise less, the task of staying fit and trim becomes even more difficult. And while a sensible diet combined with exercise is still the best answer, new research suggests that soy can play a major role in helping you achieve your weight loss goals faster.

A significant number of research studies support claims that soy consumption can help you lose weight. Soy protein is a low-fat source of high-quality protein (compared to many other protein sources) that can help you build lean muscle mass. When combined with exercise and a healthy diet, soy protein makes an excellent “partner” in a successful weight loss plan.

While both men and women are likely to develop weaker bones and joints as they age, it's the loss of estrogen during menopause that puts women at greater risk during postmenopausal years.

What Causes Poor Bone Health?
Bones are continuously rebuilding themselves through an ongoing cycle in which old bone is broken down and new bone is formed. The loss of estrogen during menopause causes this "remodeling" cycle to slow down with bone breaking down faster than it reforms. Some of the calcium temporarily released from bones during this process is lost in the urine, causing bones to gradually become more porous, weak and brittle. Poor calcium intake and lack of weight-bearing exercise also contribute to bone loss.