Everyone’s heard of protein. But do you know exactly what it is and why we all need it? Let us examine protein more closely to get to the bottom of things.
What is Protein?
Quite simply, proteins are essential nutrients that the human body requires. They are part of the building blocks of tissue. Protein can also serve as a source of energy. Every human being needs protein if they are going to stay healthy and active.
Why You Need Protein
Every cell in your body contains protein. Therefore, you need protein in your diet to stay healthy. It helps your body to repair cells and create new ones. Protein also plays a vital role in the growth and development of children, teenagers, and pregnant women– but protein is crucial for everyone. For one thing, it helps the process that fuels your energy by carrying oxygen through your blood. Protein helps your body make antibodies to fight off illnesses and infections. When you do not have enough protein in your diet, it can cause health issues like muscle loss.
The Benefits of Protein Powders
While you can get protein from many foods, lots of people choose to take nutritional supplements – like protein powder – to ensure they are getting the right dose of protein they need to stay strong and healthy. Protein powder has many benefits. It helps to build muscle, repair tissue, and could even aid in weight loss. There are lots of different types of protein powders available, but they tend to either fall into the dairy-based or a plant-based category. One of the best types of protein powders you can buy for building muscle and losing weight is grass fed whey protein, which contains all of the essential amino acids. Whey protein is also absorbed quickly in comparison to other types of protein powders.
The Role of Amino Acids
When you eat foods containing protein, it is are broken down into small parts called amino acids through digestion. Your body needs amino acids to maintain good health. There are three types of amino acids:
· Essential amino acids, which cannot be made by your body and therefore must be supplied by food or supplements. It is best to intake essential amino acids throughout the course of the day, rather than at just one meal.
· Nonessential amino acids, which are made by your body.
· Conditional amino acids, which your body requires in times of illness and stress.
Protein Foods
The protein that your body needs can primarily be sourced from animal products, like meat, fish, eggs, and milk. Protein can also be sourced from plant products, like beans, legumes, soy, and some grains. Here are three of the best food sources for amino acid-rich protein:
Seafood
Seafood is one of the best sources of protein because it is usually low in fat. Some fish can have higher fat contents than others, but it is almost always the healthy kind of omega-3 fatty acids. Even fish like salmon, which has a higher fat content, are good for you and a great source of protein.
White Meat
To get protein without damaging fat, avoid dark meats and stick to white meat, like poultry. Also, remove the skin of poultry before eating because it is full of saturated fat.
Soy
Soy is not only a fantastic source of protein, it can also help lower your cholesterol. In fact, just fifty grams of soy protein each day can lower your cholesterol by 3%. Soy can also be good for your heart’s health.
