Between the ages of 60 and 80, Canadian seniors can lose up to 40 per cent of their lean muscle mass. This condition is called Sarcopenia, and leaves many seniors without the strength to perform even basic daily activities. As their strength decreases, the risk of falls and fractures increases - along with the need for expensive treatment and hospital care.

Another common side effect of the loss of lean muscle is an increase in body fat. As we age, excess body fat increases the risk for cardiovascular disease, insulin resistance and type II diabetes.

Therefore, without physical activity and high-quality proteins in our diet to offset the muscle mass loss, Canadian seniors run the risk of becoming "fat-frail."

For seniors, ingesting protein can sometimes be difficult. One of the most easily digestible sources of protein is eggs. Eggs provide numerous other benefits as well including 14 essential nutrients needed to stay active and healthy - including vitamin B12, which can stave off fatigue and cartenoids, which collect in the eye and play a role in promoting and improving vision.

"Eggs are custom-made for seniors' special dietary and lifestyle needs," according to Margaret Hedley, Registered Dietitian, and recent retiree.

"They are nature's original functional food: in addition to being a great source of high-quality protein, they are low in saturated fats, contain no trans fats, and are inexpensive - all at just 70 calories each. A serving of one to two eggs is also easy to prepare - an important factor for seniors who are often cooking for one."

Seniors who have avoided eggs in the past for fear of cholesterol can now take heart. A recent Harvard School of Public Health study found no link between eating eggs and developing cardiovascular disease in healthy
individuals.

In fact, the Harvard study indicated that avoiding dietary cholesterol can actually lead to an unbalanced intake of nutrients, which may increase risk for other health problems.

"My advice to seniors, and all Canadians wanting to boost their protein levels, is to have an egg or two for breakfast - you'll have more long-lasting energy and you'll be fuelling your body's important protein needs for a more active and healthy lifestyle," added Hedley.