Food serves as fuel for proper body functioning. Each component in your diet has a unique role to play. Carbohydrates provide you with energy. On the other hand, fats, minerals, and vitamins keep body functions in place. Similarly, protein is necessary for body functions, structures, and everyday repair.
As vital as it is, people often lack enough protein intake. Statistics show that one billion people across the globe are protein deficient. While there is no precise measurement of how much protein your body need, recommended dietary allowance for protein is roughly 0.8 grams per Kg of body weight for an average adult following a sedentary lifestyle.
Whether you follow an active or passive lifestyle, protein is a food source you must not disregard. Here are four good reasons to add protein-rich food for better health. But first, let us learn which food sources make a better choice.
Which Food Sources are Rich in Protein?
Proteins form the backbone of your vital functions and are responsible for proper growth. A high-protein diet is essential to promote muscle recovery, regeneration and boost stamina.
Essentially protein is made of 20 different amino acids. Each amino acid has a specific function to perform. For instance, tryptophan is responsible for producing serotonin, a feel-good hormone. Arginine, another amino acid, ensures that blood flow remains constant while repairing function occurs. In combination, all amino acids play a vital role in developing your body’s protein structures. They also promote a high rate of protein utilization in your body.
However, choosing a protein source containing all amino acid profiles is necessary. Many food sources like pulses may offer high protein value but may not contain a full set of 20 amino acids. Lean meat, fish, poultry, dairy products, and eggs are examples of such protein containing all amino acids.
As a general rule of thumb, high-protein food is recommended for people looking to strengthen their muscular strength. Protein serves as a building block for muscle tissue. It does so by repairing muscle fibers and promoting the development of myocytes.
An appropriate amount of protein in your blood supply elevates the muscle-repairing function. So, it fuels stamina and can boost endurance. Such effects contribute to higher energy levels and can prevent muscle injury in the long run.
2. Provides Enhanced Immune Function
Apart from providing muscular stamina, protein also enhances the immune functions in the body. It does so by giving the cells the necessary fodder to create antibodies.
Robust antiobodies ensures better immune function. They neutralize the effect of any harmful pathogen attack, including viruses and bacteria. When the body is injured or infected, protein helps in creating new tissues to repair the damage.
Another way protein helps immune function is by repairing any tissue damage that happens during immune functions. Adding an appropriate amount of protein to your diet can help regulate the body’s immune system.
3. It can Offer Better Satiety
Protein-rich food is a hot favorite among fitness enthusiasts. It is because protein helps you stay full for longer and minimize your chances of overeating. Evidently,
Ghrelin is a hormone that helps stimulate hunger, and leptin signals the body about fullness. Interestingly, protein reduces ghrelin and increases leptin release. So, your body is signaled to eat less and feel full simultaneously.
4. Protein Is Good for your Skin and Nails
Have you ever noticed how your skin and hair lose luster when protein deficient? Amino acid not only helps in muscle recovery but also supports skin and hair health. Our skin is made up of keratin, an essential amino acid, that provides structural support and
Protein also helps build collagen, the primary structural protein in the skin. An adequate amount of protein in your diet can help with skin elasticity and strengthen it from within.
Bottom Line
Food is the only fuel to the body, and p rotein is a crucial aspect of your diet. It aids the proper development, growth, and repair of the body. However, you may only get the best out of your protein if you balance the other aspects of the diet. For instance, without carbohydrates and fat, your body uses protein as fuel, which may hinder adequate functioning.
A well-rounded nutrition approach maximizes your body’s potential and minimizes physical and mental tension. If you are unsure where to start, contact a nutritionist for the proper guidance.
