Extending lifespan and maximizing health is what Arnold Schwarzenegger is all about nowadays at age 77. In a recent Arnold’s Pump Club Newsletter shared on August 16, 2024, the bodybuilding icon examined studies suggesting that those who eat more protein have a lower mortality rate and live longer lives.
Who doesn’t want to live longer? Throughout history, Hollywood elites, scientists, and even your average Joe have been hunting for a way to defy Father Time. This includes bodybuilding legend Arnold Schwarzenegger, who, at the fresh young age of 77, might be on his way to doing just that.
As luck might have it, Arnold Schwarzenegger’s addiction to working out has more benefits than simply being a beefcake. However, this isn’t news to Schwarzenegger who has always held the belief that sweat is the best-kept anti-aging secret. He is also adamant that exercise is the supreme medicine when it comes to aches and pains.
Over the years, Arnold Schwarzenegger has continued seeking ways to improve longevity by implementing multivitamins and Omega-3s. Diet has also played a major role in maintaining his vitality later in life. Schwarzenegger has switched to a 70% plant-based diet, which in turn reduced his blood pressure. Additionally, Schwarzenegger shared that focusing on eating whole foods that are nutrient-rich helps fight disease.
Arnold Schwarzenegger Discusses How Consuming More Protein Leads to Enhanced Longevity
In a recent Arnold’s Pump Club Newsletter, Arnold Schwarzenegger is evaluating how protein impacts longevity. In the past, it was believed that lowering your protein intake increased lifespans but now science is proving that isn’t the case.
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“Protein and Longevity”
“Many longevity experts suggest that cutting back on protein could be one of the secrets of better aging. However, new research suggests that people who purposely lower their protein to support longevity might be doing the opposite of what they hoped.”
According to studies conducted by scientists, those who ate more protein had lower mortality rates and lived longer.
“Scientists found that people who eat more protein have a lower mortality rate and live longer. The most interesting part? The study focused on people with chronic kidney disease, and the participants who ate more protein had better health outcomes.”
While protein has been villainized in the past with many suggesting it causes adverse health effects, Schwarzenegger doesn’t buy into many of those assertions.
“For decades, some people have suggested that higher protein diets cause kidney issues despite a lack of evidence. While there was some speculation that those with existing kidney problems might need to scale back protein intake to low levels, there was never a question that protein is essential.”
Looking at the research, Schwarzenegger, along with scientists, concluded that eating 1.6 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight had ‘protective effects’ compared to those who stuck with .8 grams per kilogram of body weight.
“The new research examined more than 8,500 participants aged 60 and older and examined how total, animal, and plant protein intake correlated with all-cause mortality.”
Eating up to 1.6 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight (per day) had protective effects compared to those who ate .8 grams of protein per kilogram (the RDA for protein).”
Whether it’s plant-based or animal-based protein sources, both can help you live longer, says Schwarzenegger.
“As we’ve shared from other research, plant protein provides more health protection than animal protein. However, it wasn’t all bad news.
Even those who ate animal protein showed reduced mortality compared to those who cut back on protein too significantly. So consider it a reminder that it’s best to eat a variety of protein sources and include more plant-based options, but you don’t have to cut out animal protein altogether.”
From his top protein sources to ideal breakfasts without meat, Arnold Schwarzenegger continues to give back to the fitness and bodybuilding community. Considering his status as an all-time great athlete in muscle-building, he refuses to underestimate the power of protein, especially concerning aging and longevity.
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