This guide contains an introduction to alternative protein supplementation, including…
1) a look at the benefits of using protein 2) A look at various forms of protein foods used in supplementation.
This guide is perfect for…
Perfect for clients who are vegetarian/vegan, lacto-intolerant, allergenic or even struggle with irritable stomachs.
This is your Protein Alternatives: 101
Keep on reading for 9 reasons why protein is ESSENTIAL for all of our FIT4FUNCTION Family, no matter your goals of path.
Protein is crucial to good health.
In fact, the name comes from the Greek word proteos, meaning “primary” or “first place.”
Proteins are made up of amino acids that join together to form long chains. You can think of a protein as a string of beads in which each bead is an amino acid.
There are 20 amino acids that help form the thousands of different proteins in your body.
Proteins do most of their work in the cell and perform various jobs.
Here are 9 important functions of protein in your body.
“The right choice of foods will allow you to cover all the macro and micro nutrients requirements of your personal nutrition goal”
- Bradley Roehrig
1. Growth and Maintenance
Protein is required for the growth and maintenance of tissues. Your body’s protein needs are dependent upon your health and activity level.
2. it makes the magic happen.
Enzymes are proteins that aid the thousands of biochemical reactions that take place within and outside of your cells
Bodily functions that depend on enzymes include:
Digestion
Energy production
Blood clotting
Muscle contraction
Lack or improper function of these enzymes can result in disease
3. Acts as a Messenger
Some proteins are hormones.
Protein and polypeptides make up most of your body’s hormones.
Some examples include:
Insulin: Signals the uptake of glucose or sugar into the cell.
Glucagon: Signals the breakdown of stored glucose in the liver.
hGH (human growth hormone): Stimulates the growth of various tissues, including bone.
ADH (antidiuretic hormone): Signals the kidneys to reabsorb water.
ACTH (adrenocorticotropic hormone): Stimulates the release of cortisol, a key factor in metabolism.
4. Provides Structure
Some proteins are fibrous and provide cells and tissues with stiffness and rigidity.
These proteins include keratin, collagen and elastin, which help form the connective framework of certain structures in your body.
5. they maintain your internal balance
Protein plays a vital role in regulating the concentrations of acids and bases in your blood and other bodily fluids
Proteins act as a buffer system, helping your body maintain proper pH values of the blood and other bodily fluids.
6. Balances Fluids
Albumin and globulin are proteins in your blood that help maintain your body’s fluid balance by attracting and retaining water
If you don’t eat enough protein, your levels of albumin and globulin eventually decrease.
Consequently, these proteins can no longer keep blood in your blood vessels, and the fluid is forced into the spaces between your cells.
This is a form of severe protein malnutrition called kwashiorkor that develops when a person is consuming enough calories but does not consume enough protein
7. Bolsters Immune Health
Proteins help form immunoglobulins, or antibodies, to fight infection
Proteins form antibodies to protect your body from foreign invaders, such as disease-causing bacteria and viruses.
8. Transports and Stores Nutrients
Some proteins transport nutrients throughout your entire body, while others store them.
Proteins form antibodies to protect your body from foreign invaders, such as disease-causing bacteria and viruses.
9. Proteins can supply your body with energy.
Protein contains 4 calories per gram, the same amount of energy that carbs provide. Fats supply the most energy, at 9 calories per gram
Protein can serve as a valuable energy source but only in situations of fasting, exhaustive exercise or inadequate calorie intake.