The Impact of Beef on Muscle Fatigue in Older Adults

Inclusion Criteria Ages 60-75 years Ability to eat study diet meals for a total of 16 weeks Ability to perform sit-to-stand chair and 6-minute walking tests based on results from PAR-Q questionnaire Ability to provide fasted blood samples Access to transportation Willing to abstain from alcohol consumption and/or use illicit drug use for each 8-week intervention period Ability to consent to participating in this study English-speaking Body mass index between 18.5 (normal) and 39.9 (obese) kg/m2 Minimum total body weight of 110 pounds Non-anemia hemoglobin values: Females - >12.0 grams/dL; Men - >13.0 grams/dL Able to ambulate without assistance Physician's clearance for study participation (required prior to baseline testing) Exclusion Criteria Inability or refusal to sign the informed consent Significant orthopedic limitations or other contraindications to exercise Inability or refusal to perform muscle fatigue tests Has dietary restrictions that prevent to consumption of beef, soy and/or wheat Has liver or kidney complications Live or work >50 miles from Bloomington study site or does not have transportation to the study site Anticipate elective surgery during the study period Diagnosis of progressive neurological disorders, musculoskeletal disorders, osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis Fracture or serious injury in the last 6 months Stroke, revascularization, deep vein thrombosis, or pulmonary embolism in the past 12 months Severe cardiovascular disease, uncontrolled systemic hypertension, chronic pulmonary disease Plan to move residence or travel out of the local area during the study period Current use of anti-coagulants (e.g. Coumadin or Warfarin) Current use of prescription medications that affect heart rate or blood vessel dilation Psychological or social characteristics that would interfere with their ability to fully participate in the study