What Is Protein?

Protein is a complex of nitrogen-based molecules composed of smaller units called peptides, which are made of basic units called amino acids, that do all kinds of jobs in your bodies. They contribute make up hair, nails, bones, and muscles. Protein is essential for the functioning of all organs and it gives them their shapes. In short, protein is one of the building blocks that make you.

Energy Reserve

Protein isn’t the body’s first choice for energy production. That role is reserved for carbohydrates as a first line then lipids. But when you run on calories like during sickness, starving or heavy sports, proteins come into action to provide you with energy. 

Building Your Muscles

Proteins keep up the shape and size of your muscle. When you exercise, it is proteins that make your muscles enlarge and adapt to the new work done on them. When you lose weight, proteins help prevent losing the bulk of your muscles. 

Hardening Your Bones

Getting the required amount of protein in diet is necessary for bone health. Protein maintains bone density and prevents osteoporosis, and it helps reduce fracture incidents due to aging.

Boosting Up Immune System

Immune system cannot exist without proteins. the basic units of proteins are amino acids, and amino acids are essential for antibodies, T cells, B cells,natural killers, phagocytes and other components of your immunity.

Anti-Cravings

Cravings are not true needs for nutrition. They are erratic on-states of the reward circuits, and are similar to addictions. Proteins help reduce cravings, including the notorious late-night fridge raids.

Burning Fat

When you are on a rich-protein diet (but nor excessive), your basal metabolic rate is boosted. This leads to burning more calories, even when you are at rest. The opposite is true when your diet is low on proteins

Helping Your Heart

Plant-source proteins can reduce the blood pressure and decrease the blood levels of bad cholesterol. This reduces the risk of cardiovascular incidents.

Healing

Protein is vital for wound repair and inflammatory response subsidence. It is essential for creating new tissues at the site of injury. healing process cannot be accomplished without proteins

Carrying Nutrients

protein is the carrier the takes nutrients like sugar, vitamins, minerals, and gases through your blood to different cells in your tissues.

Is Too Much Protein harmful?

The answer is yes. So take it in moderation, take care of red meat, and you may consult your doctor if you have obesity issues, high cholesterol, kidney or liver issues.

What Are the Best Sources?

Low-fat sources are the best. Avoid saturated fats and highly processed foods. Spread it throughout the day instead of taking it into a single meal. Make your diet rich in veggies and fruits so you get adequate, minerals, fiber and vitamins.

References: WebMD Network