Previously, we explored the benefits of combining protein with dates, a crucial dietary choice for Muslims during the fasting month by incorporating a balance of macronutrients – protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats. Today, we delve into the 7 Reasons Why Protein Is Important and the importance of this macronutrients for maintaining our overall health and wellbeing.
Let's delve into the critical roles of what protein does for your body, with insights from Shamini Devi Rajaretnam, Senior Nutritionist and former Amway Trainer with over 35 years of experience.
1. Protein for Growth and Maintenance
Protein isn't just important athletes and for muscle growth – it's essential for many components of our health. From cell development to tissue repair, protein is the building block of life. Without enough protein intake and essential amino acids (EAAs), wounds take longer to heal, hair and nails struggle to grow, and vital processes like enzyme and hormone production are compromised.
2. Protein for Healthy Bodily Regulation
Protein helps maintain the body's fluid balance, facilitates nutrient transport, and regulates electrolyte levels in our cells. This balance is vital for proper muscle and nerve function, as well as maintaining stable blood pressure.
3. Protein for Blood Component
Our blood, which carries essential nutrients to cells and removes waste, relies on protein. Red blood cells, responsible for oxygen transport, require protein for renewal. Haemoglobin, a crucial blood protein, ensures efficient oxygen exchange in the lungs.
4. Protein for Supporting Body Defense
Proteins play a pivotal role in bolstering our body’s defense system. White blood cells, our body's defenders against pathogens, rely on protein for formation and function. Antibodies, crucial for fighting infections, are also protein-based.
5. Protein for Supporting Energy Levels
Protein isn't just for building muscles; it has an impact on your energy level too. Enzymes, necessary for converting food into energy, are protein-based. Hormones, influencing everything from appetite to metabolism, also rely on protein.
6. Protein and the Gut Health
Protein and fibre work together to keep us feeling full longer, granted we have a healthy gut and good digestive health. Additionally, protein digestion takes longer, aiding in satiety and boosting your digestive health. This slower digestion process can help control appetite and promote weight management.
Learn more: https://amwaynow.my/en/articles/how-protein-boosts-your-digestive-health-amwaynow
7. Protein and Weight Management
Looking to shed some pounds? Protein can be your best friend. Not only does it help maintain muscle mass during weight loss, but it also contributes to calorie burning and appetite control, making it a valuable ally in the battle against fat.
Here you go! These are the 7 reasons why protein is important and the benefits it provides for maintaining good health. Not consuming enough protein can results to poor production of collagen, slower recovery from injury, tiredness or fatigue and more that we'll explore further in our next protein article where we're covering the checklist for you to spot the signs of lack of protein!
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References
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Halton TL, Hu FB. The effects of high protein diets on thermogenesis, satiety and weight loss: a critical review. J Am Coll Nutr 2004;23:373–85.
Schutz Y, Bray G, Margen S. Postprandial thermogenesis at rest and during exercise in elderly men ingesting two levels of protein. J Am Coll Nutr 1987;6:497–506.
Anderson GH, Moore SE. Dietary proteins in the regulation of food intake and body weight in humans. J Nutr 2004;134:974S–9S.
Weigle DS, Breen PA, Matthys CC, et al. A high-protein diet induces sustained reductions in appetite, ad libitum caloric intake, and body weight despite compensatory changes in diurnal plasma leptin and ghrelin concentrations. Am J Clin Nutr 2005;82:41–8.
