There are many reasons why protein is important. First of all, every cell in your body uses protein, and it works to heal and repair your body. But there are also many other benefits of eating protein.
There is some confusion as to how much protein the human body actually absorbs, but if you follow the general recommendations, you should be good. Bodybuilders are generally the only people that take extra protein, which helps build muscle (you’ll learn more about thats oon).
As far as how much protein you need, it is recommended that active men and teenage boys get three to seven ounces a day. Children ages two to six, and most women, should get two to five ounces a day. Older children, active women, and the rest of the men shove get two to six ounces a day.
Speeds recovery after you exercise
Since protein helps your muscles and your tissue, it makes sense that it would help out post-exercise. In fact, it can help you get your energy back faster and it can also help combat any injuries as well, from sprains to strains.
While eating a big fat steak after your workout may not be the best idea, try having a protein shake post-fitness to help keep your energy up. You may not feel like you need it since exercise itself helps promote energy, but it sure can’t hurt!
Reduces loss of muscle
If you aren’t getting enough protein in your diet you can lose muscle. As you get older your muscle naturally starts to break down. That makes it important to keep getting the recommended amount of protein in your diet.
You can get protein from other foods than just meat and other animal byproducts. Peas and beans are great protein substitutes, as well as seeds and nuts. Many grains can give you a boost of protein, including quinoa.
Helps with building lean muscle
The reason why protein drinks and whey are so popular with weightlifters and bodybuilders is that protein helps build lean muscle in the body. That means that work at getting the muscles they want naturally, with some good old exercise and healthy eating.
Works to maintain healthy weight
When you are trying to lose weight there are few reasons not to cut back on your protein. For one, it can help your keep a healthy weight. Just make wise choices on the rest of the foods that you eat, and make sure you eat your fruits and vegetables, and with some good exercise you’ll start losing weight in no time.
Helps with curbing hunger
The other reason is that protein can help curb your appetite so you don’t eat as much. This is one of the reasons you should include a protein in each meal, even if it’s a meat alternative. Also, have nuts or seeds for snacks so that you snack less.
Originally posted on October 16, 2015 @ 10:15 am