Protein is an important part of the diet and needs to be taken every day for a variety of reasons. It keeps our blood sugar at optimum levels and ensures our metabolism is functioning at the right rate. Protein happens to be important to nearly every part of our body. It is especially important for those looking to increase their muscle mass. It helps the digestive process move along smoothly. It aids in a variety of brain functions. It even keeps us in a cheerful mood!
Perhaps we’ll better understand why protein is so good for us if we know what protein actually is. A protein is simply a molecule consisting of a chain of amino acids. We can get them from lots of sources, including vegetables. However, most amino acids come from animal meat. A few types of proteins also come from seeds and nuts.
It is the amino acids that keep your body going every day. They are involved directly and indirectly in the growth, maintenance and strengthening of many components of your body, including your enzymes, your muscles and more. Amino acids even boost your immunity. So you can see why these little guys are so crucial to your health.
How Much Protein Do I Need?
The answer to that question depends on a number of factors, including your weight, height, age and how much physical activity you get. Some illnesses may even require you to take a little more or a little less protein than you ideally should. As for athletes, due to their level of activity, they need a higher dose of protein than the average person. Nevertheless, a good ballpark figure is provided by the USDA for the correct amount of protein to be consumed by men and women. If you are of average weight and have an average level of activity, then your protein intake should be 56 grams daily for males and 46 grams daily for women.
General Benefits of Protein Consumption
Protein helps you increase the amount of muscle mass in your body. If you don’t consume enough protein, your muscles will go through a process known as muscle atrophy, where your body breaks down the fibers in your muscles to obtain energy.
· Protein generally lowers your appetite, helping with the weight loss process.
· Proteins stabilized blood sugar. Protein lowers the amount of insulin produced by your body because it requires far less insulin to be metabolized than fat and carbohydrates. As a result, your blood glucose levels will be reduced, as well as the absorption of sugar from your meal. This is crucial, as it prevents type II diabetes.
· Protein-rich food can keep your bones strong and repair damaged bones. It achieves this by enhancing your body’s ability to absorb more calcium. Calcium is a crucial mineral for bone development.
· Protein is good for your heart. It reduces the amount of bad cholesterol in your blood while simultaneously reducing your blood pressure.
