What Is Protein and Why Does My Body Need It?
Define Protein
Proteins are complex substances that consist of amino acids and contain various essential elements and biological compounds. Our bodies all need protein to function optimally. Proteins also help build and strengthen tissue in the body.
Eating protein can increase the number of calories your body burns, so it’s important when trying to lose weight. It also helps reduce your appetite and helps you preserve your muscle mass.
According to a recent study, protein intake of “around 25–30% of total daily calories has been shown to boost metabolism by up to 80–100 calories per day, compared to lower protein diets.”
There are lot of reasons that our bodies thrive on protein!
Protein Summit
Several years ago, representatives from the egg, beef, and other animal-based food industries got together for a Protein Summit to define protein and discuss how much people actually need. Here they determined that, while the RDA recommends .8 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight for adults, that is the minimal amount—not the amount we need to thrive or for our bodies to optimally function.
These representatives determined that people probably eat too little protein and reiterated the importance of protein for preserving muscle strength, for burning fat, and for helping preserve muscle as you age. Researchers agreed that taking in twice the RDA amount of protein is a good range to shoot for. That means that roughly 15-25% of your daily calories should be protein.
That does not mean that you should go out and start eating tons of red meat. There are many great protein choices that are low in saturated fats and that are healthy for all of your bodily systems. Whole grains, vegetables (such as broccoli, asparagus, avocados, edamame, and Brussels sprouts), beans, quinoa, and nuts are just some of the wonderful sources of protein that are not meat.
And, remember, you should eat protein throughout the day, not just at a heavy dinner. Eat some at every meal and even at snack time.
PI has great alternatives!
We know that you are busy and that it’s not always easy to take a break for healthy foods. So you’re likely to grab a protein bar or shake to help. Remember that not all protein bars or drinks are created alike. Many contain a lot of sugar and have artificial ingredients that your body doesn’t need. That’s why Performance Inspired has created a full line of products to help with your protein intake! Whether you’re looking for a whey protein mix, a plant-based protein, a Ready 2GO protein drink, or one of our delicious protein bars, we have something for every time of the day and for every craving.
Not only are our foods delicious, but they are made with natural ingredients that are good for you!
Building a healthy diet takes a lot of effort, but the effort is worth it, especially when you see the benefits to your body. So, the next time you feel hungry and you know your body needs protein, grab some veggies, some whole grains, or some of our amazing products. You will feel the difference and will be on the way to a new you this 2020!
