There are three main classes of food, and one of them is protein. The word “protein” originates from the Ancient Greek word “proteos,” which when translated means “primary” or “first place.” The building blocks of proteins are amino acids.
For a long time, many people have considered the intake of proteins as essential only for bodybuilders and people looking to bulk up their bodies. This should not be the case, because protein is essential for maintaining overall good health.
A deficiency of proteins in your diet can lead to kwashiorkor or marasmus, conditions synonymous with growing children in less developed countries. Inadequate protein intake can bring about loss of muscle mass, which, in turn, results in a reduction in strength, making it more difficult to keep balance and slowing metabolism.
Also, poor protein uptake can result in anemia due to not getting enough oxygen to your cells, which would cause you to feel weary.
So, why is protein essential in your diet? In this article, we take a look at five reasons you should include proteins in your diet.
Table of Contents
1. Increasing the Size of Your Muscles
Protein contains all of the amino acids that are necessary for your body to develop strong muscles. In addition to engaging in regular physical activity, consuming a diet high in protein is one of the best ways to encourage muscle growth and regeneration.
Bodybuilders who are looking into increasing their lean muscles usually increase their protein uptake by ingesting meal replacement protein powder.
2. Retaining a Healthy Bone Density
Protein is now acknowledged to be just as important to the formation of healthy bones as calcium and vitamin D. Protein decreases the risk of hip fracture and increases bone density. Therefore, if you frequently suffer from hip and bone fractures, protein could be what you have been missing all along.
3. Energy and Focus
A high-protein breakfast is a great way to jumpstart your day. A common piece of advice nutritionists give adults is to have 25 to 30 grams of protein first thing in the morning so that they can get their day started on the right foot.
Kids need to also have an adequate amount of protein in every meal they take, even though not in the same quantities as adults. It is possible to assist children maintain their alertness and concentration until the time of their next meal by incorporating sufficient protein into their morning meals. It has been demonstrated that children who consume breakfast are better able to pay attention and concentrate over the course of the school day.
4. Digestion
About half of the protein you consume daily is put to use by your body in the production of enzymes, which are essential for the digestion of food and the production of new cells and molecules in the body.
5. Curbing Hunger
A diet higher in protein makes you feel full for a longer period of time than a diet high in carbohydrates and lipids. If you start the day with a nutritious breakfast high in protein, you will have a reduced chance of experiencing feelings of hunger by the middle of the day.
