Live Science defines protein as an important macronutrient that helps people stay healthy. It helps your organs function properly, aids in keeping your energy levels high, and carries oxygen throughout your body. Individuals should consume the necessary amounts of protein to be able to stay healthy. It is often found in meat products like chicken, beef, and pork. But why should you care about eating enough of this nutrient?
Benefits of Protein
If you are building muscle mass, protein is one of the best ways to do so because it contains amino acids that aid in cell repair of this area. It is also effective in satiating hunger, making it a good thing to add if you are trying to lose weight through a calorie deficit. Aside from this, it can boost your metabolism, increase calcium absorption, lower blood pressure, and help you retain overall fitness.
To achieve its benefits though, it is important that you are consuming the right amounts of protein. Health reporter Laura Dolson explains that this depends on your daily calorie needs. 10-35% of your intake every day should be made up of protein-rich foods. People who are pregnant, are within the older adult population, or are suffering from kidney and liver conditions may need more of this macronutrient than the average person so be sure to consult with your doctor first.
Other ways to add it to your diet
Though it was mentioned earlier that eating meat will help you increase your daily protein intake, here are a few alternatives you can try:
Use whey
Our past article on Whey Protein explains how it is a concentrated source of the nutrient and has fewer calories than meals, making it a great alternative if you are counting calories but still want to be able to get ample amounts of protein. The powder substance is also incredibly popular among fitness enthusiasts. Our allergen-friendly whey products, Nutralean, can easily be added to meals or milk to receive the right amount of the macronutrient.
Eat meat substitutes
Another thing you can consider is eating meat substitutes. Food columnist Jonah De Jesus writes that beans and mushrooms are packed with enough proteins to replace meat products in your meals. Cucumber is a fruit that also contains a substantial amount of protein, making it a great alternative. While it isn’t necessary to eat a meat substitute to maintain protein intake, they are ideal for those who are following diets like vegetarianism or for people who can’t eat too much red meat due to health concerns.
Consume more dairy products
The last thing you can do to add more protein to your diet is to eat more dairy products. Registered dietitian Kathleen Zelman writes that things like milk, cheese, and yogurt are often fortified with different nutrients and vitamins, including protein, making them a great addition to your diet. They are also filled with things like calcium and vitamin D which aid in keeping your body strong and healthy.
It is no secret that protein is an important part of everyone’s diet. It is extremely helpful in keeping you healthy and your muscles strong. These are just a few of the reasons why you should be eating enough protein every day and how to do it.
Written by Astrid Rea Cokehill
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