How to Live a Healthier Life: Protein

Protein is an important component of every cell in the body. It is an organic compound, composed of 22 amino acids, therefore it is known as the building blocks of life. Protein is stored in muscles and organs and the body utilizes it to build and repair tissues, as well as for the production of enzymes and hormones. Protein also makes it possible for blood to carry oxygen throughout the body. Along with fat and carbohydrates, protein is a macronutrient, meaning the body needs relatively large amounts of it. Our daily requirement of protein should be 10 percent to 35 percent of our total caloric intake, with men needing slightly more than women stated by the Institute of Medicine of the National Academy of Sciences. A lack of protein can cause loss of muscle mass, decreased immunity, as well as weakening of the heart and respiratory system.

Protein and Weight Management
Why protein is important for weight management is because when absorbed it sends a signal to the brain to decrease your hunger. Protein also raises your resting metabolism by maintaining muscle mass. A muscle mass decrease without exercise, so staying fit is a key to burning fat by keeping your metabolism high. Protein also leads to a much less rapid rise and fall of blood sugar and insulin so you avoid the “sugar highs and lows” after eating sweets without adequate protein.

What is an Amino Acids
Amino acids are building blocks of other essential parts of the body, such as enzymes antibodies and hormones. Enzymes which are essentially active proteins do the work of breaking down food into absorbable nutrients, without it you could eat and still die of starvation. Antibodies help your body fight infections and viruses. Hormones affect your metabolism and your behavior. Without adequate protein your body cannot manufacture adequate enzymes, antibodies and hormones.