Healthy drink helps 97-year-old woman have a toned figure

Elaine LaLanne has been a symbol of healthy living since the 1950s. She is known as the "first lady" of the fitness industry, who has created standards for fitness for many years.

She and her late husband, fitness legend Jack LaLanne, inspired generations of Americans to eat healthier and exercise more regularly.

At the age of 97, the woman still exercises every day, follows an ideal diet and leads an active life. She has a toned body and has published two books about bodybuilding in recent years. Her messages early in her career helped shape contemporary diet culture.

In an interview with Insider , she revealed how to mix a simple drink to get a toned body over the age of 90. The recipe includes 2% milk, a scoop or two of protein powder, a banana and a few grams of berries.

According to nutritionist Jordan Hill, protein plays an important role in building and maintaining muscle mass, and is a component of red blood cells and tissues in the body. Protein also helps exercisers feel full longer, avoiding snacking during the day.

According to the British Heart Foundation, on average, women need about 45 g of protein and men need 55 g of protein per day. However, people begin to lose muscle mass as they age. This condition is called sarcopenia. Some studies have found that eating slightly more protein than the recommended amount can increase muscle health and prevent muscle loss in old age.

Mrs. Elaine LaLanne is doing stretching, an important exercise of the day.  Photo: Elaine LaLanne

Elaine LaLanne is doing stretching, an important exercise for the day. Photo: Elaine LaLanne

However, experts note that you should not choose protein powders with added sugar or artificial sweeteners, because these products will accidentally add calories to the body without many people realizing it.

Besides healthy drinks, LaLanne also shares general eating and exercise tips. For breakfast, she often eats yogurt with berries and granola. The "exclusive" smoothie is served afterward.

She starts her day by doing 20 sit-ups in bed, then doing incline push-ups at the bathroom sink. LaLanne believes that exercising 20 minutes a day is enough for people to have a toned body as they get older.

She also did not forget to remind herself to regulate her emotions and overcome life's challenges with a calm mind. "Everything starts with your mindset," she said.