Unlocking the Secrets to Longevity: Dr. Gabrielle Lyon’s Insights

1. Muscle Mass

   People with healthy muscle mass have a greater survivability against nearly all kinds of diseases. If you were to get injured or God forbid get a serious disease like cancer, skeletal muscle would be your survival mechanism. Speaking of muscles, Dr Lyon is big on keeping them in tip-top shape. Maintaining muscle mass isn't just about looking good. It's about keeping your metabolism humming and your body functioning well.

2. Prioritize Protein

   Protein is a must-have. Your muscles need it. Dr. Lyon emphasizes this big-time. Dr. Lyon is a huge advocate of high-quality protein. She recommends consuming around 30-50 grams per meal. Protein, she asserts, is essential for muscle health and overall longevity. Reducing dietary protein may harm skeletal muscle health, which is directly related to metabolic health and longevity. I have found that regularly eating lean protein and limiting carbs leaves me feeling more energetic throughout the day and helps in building muscle.

3. The Magic of Regular Exercise

   Regular exercise keeps the body agile and the mind sharp. Dr Lyon suggests resistance training in particular. Starting with 3 days a week of resistance training is recommended. Resistance exercise and high-intensity interval training can improve mitochondrial health. Mitochondria are the energy powerhouses of cells and play a role in fatty acid oxidation. Improving mitochondrial function can lead to feeling better and having more energy. I have developed a routine of working out first thing in the morning. I purchased some dumbbells and a bench press some years ago and it has been a great investment.

4. Keep your mind sharp

   Engage in cognitive stimulations regularly. Your brain will thank you later. Mind Your Mental Health. Mental health often gets sidelined in the quest for physical prowess. Dr Lyon says it shouldn't be so. She urges us to pay attention to our emotional well-being. I find that getting out for a walk in nature for even half an hour each day can be very beneficial. Reading and playing board games with my family are also great for stimulating the mind and keeping it sharp.

5. Don't Neglect Digestion

   Last, but certainly not least, is your gut health. Proper digestion is the cornerstone of good health and longevity. Gut health has emerged as a significant factor influencing overall well-being, including both muscle health and brain function. The connection between gut microbiota composition and various aspects of human physiology highlights the importance of maintaining a healthy gut through proper nutrition. Dr Lyon states that her clinical practice treats gastrointestinal issues all the time. If you get food poisoning and you get one of three bugs and for some reason, you don’t clear it which most people don’t, you are going to get small intestinal bacterial overgrowth. Small intestinal bacteria overgrowth is an autoimmune disease which can be treated if detected early.

In conclusion, maintaining muscle mass is a multifaceted endeavour that extends far beyond the gym. Dr Lyon's insights remind us that a holistic approach to health is essential for longevity and resilience against diseases. By prioritizing protein intake, engaging in regular resistance training, stimulating our minds, and caring for our digestive health, we can support our body's systems in harmony. Each aspect, from the food we eat to the way we move and think, contributes to our overall well-being. It's not just about adding years to life, but also life to years. As we continue to navigate the complexities of health and wellness, let's remember that the strength of our muscles reflects the vitality of our entire being. So, let's lift, learn, and live with vigour, knowing that our efforts today lay the foundation for a healthier tomorrow.