Why Women Over 30 Should Care About Protein, Creatine & Amino Acids

If you hear protein or creatine and picture a sweaty guy at the gym crushing a barbell—same. That used to be me too. But once I started digging into the science, I realized how crucial these nutrients are for women’s health—especially if you’re navigating your 30s, 40s, hormones, stress, motherhood, or all of the above.

These days, protein, creatine, and amino acids are foundational in my daily wellness routine—not for the gains, but for the energy, longevity, hormone balance, and mental clarity.

Let’s break it all down.

🥩 Why You Need More Protein (Especially After 30)

Protein is about so much more than muscle. It plays a vital role in hormone production, immune strength, detoxification, and blood sugar balance. As we age, we naturally lose muscle—so getting enough protein is essential for maintaining strength, metabolism, and energy.

Optimal Daily Protein Intake for Women:

  • Aim for 30g of protein per meal

  • Or target 0.8–1g of protein per pound of body weight, especially if you’re active or over 30

My Favorite Protein Routine:

  • Morning: Matcha latte blended with Paleovalley Bone Broth Protein (unflavored)

  • Evening treat: Hot chocolate made with the chocolate flavor (Mom hack: mix it with milk, call it a “moo-latte,” and your toddler will love it too!)

  • Breakfast: Cottage cheese on rice cakes or a Greek yogurt bowl with peanut butter, cinnamon, chopped fruit + nuts

  • Lunch: Leftover steak, chicken, or burgers from dinner—make extra on purpose!

🧬 Amino Acids 101: Essential vs. Non-Essential vs. BCAAs

Amino acids are the building blocks of protein—and they do everything from repair tissue to support detox enzymes and hormone regulation. And according to this study… improve walking speed!

Here’s what you need to know…

🔹 Essential Amino Acids (EAAs)

  • Your body can’t produce these on its own

  • You must get them through food or supplements

  • EAAs support cell repair, lean muscle, immune health, and detoxification

🔹 Non-Essential Amino Acids

  • Your body can make these naturally

  • You don’t need to supplement with them

🔹 Branched-Chain Amino Acids (BCAAs)

  • These are 3 essential aminos (leucine, isoleucine, valine)

  • Great for muscle recovery—but not enough on their own

💥 Bottom line: If you’re going to supplement, choose a complete EAA supplement (not just BCAAs) to get the full-body benefits.

I just ordered Kion Aminos in lime flavor and can’t wait to try them!

Clean Protein Powder: What to Avoid + What I Use

Not all protein powders are created equal. Many are loaded with artificial sweeteners, gums, and low-quality whey that can lead to bloating, fatigue, and inflammation.

🛑 Ingredients to Avoid in Protein Powders:

  • Sucralose, aspartame, or acesulfame potassium (fake sweeteners)

  • Maltodextrin or dextrins (cheap fillers)

  • Inflammatory oils (like soybean or sunflower oil)

  • “Natural flavors” (vague and unregulated)

  • Non-organic whey (often hard on digestion)

✅ What to Look For:

  • Transparent sourcing

  • No added sweeteners or gums

  • Third-party tested

  • Grass-fed or pasture-raised if animal-based

I personally use Paleovalley’s Bone Broth Protein because whey protein bloats me like crazy. This bone broth version feels way gentler on my gut and tastes amazing.

⚡ Creatine for Women: The Secret to More Energy + Brain Protection

Creatine isn’t just for men or muscle. It’s one of the most well-studied supplements for muscle recovery, energy, and even cognitive health.

Dont believe me? Check out this article!

🧠 Creatine and Brain Health:

Recent research shows creatine may help:

  • Improve memory and cognitive function

  • Reduce risk of Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s

  • Protect against age-related brain atrophy

  • Support mitochondrial health (a big deal for fatigue and brain fog)

💪 Creatine and Muscle:

  • Boosts strength and endurance

  • Helps prevent sarcopenia (age-related muscle loss)

  • Supports healthy metabolism and injury prevention

Pro Tip: Take 5g of creatine every morning in a glass of water before your coffee or tea. It’s one of the easiest, most effective daily habits I’ve added—and I’ve felt the energy boost!

I currently use Thorne Creatine, and both my husband and I love it.

✅ TL;DR – Quick Recap

  • Protein helps with hormones, detox, immunity, and aging well

  • Essential amino acids are more important than BCAAs—get the full set

  • Creatine isn’t just safe for women—it’s incredibly smart for women

  • Start small: add one daily habit (protein powder or creatine) and build from there

💭 Final Thoughts

These aren’t just gym supplements—they’re tools for vibrant health, especially for women navigating life, kids, stress, and aging bodies. If you’re looking for simple wellness habits that actually move the needle, this is a great place to start.

Start with one habit—maybe it’s a scoop of clean protein in your matcha or 5g of creatine in your water. Small changes really can lead to big shifts.

📩 Ready for More Wellness Without the Overwhelm?

Sign up for my weekly newsletter, Wake Up Well with Lex, for simple, doable tips to detox your body, boost your energy, and live well in a world full of chaos.

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Why Strength Training is Non-Negotiable for Women in Their 30s and 40s