Protein A Great Source Of Wisdom

By Ransom Jackson

Kentlands Nutrition

More Weight Control, Nutrition & Exercise Articles

Protein A Great Source Of Wisdom

It seems that everywhere we look, someone is promoting a new diet that praises the power of protein. And whether you want to lose, gain or maintain your current weight, the importance of protein goes far beyond physical appearance and muscle building.

A Necessity For Every Body

Protein is an important component of every cell in the body. It's an organic compound composed of 22 amino acids otherwise known as the building blocks of life. Protein is stored in muscles and organs, and the body uses it to build and repair tissues and to help produce enzymes and hormones. Proteins also enable blood to carry oxygen throughout the body.

How Protein Affects Your Weight

High-protein diets are very popular because of their ability to help manage hunger. When protein is absorbed, it sends a signal to the brain to decrease your hunger.

Another benefit of protein is that it raises your resting metabolism by maintaining muscle mass. As we age, muscle mass decreases if you don't exercise, so staying fit is 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. Certain foods, however, provide a healthier resource for protein than others.

Consider the Source

You can obtain healthy sources of protein without high levels of saturated fat. For example, soybeans, nuts and whole grains provide protein without much saturated fat and offer plenty of healthful fiber and micronutrients as well.

Now that you've increased your knowledge of protein, you can effectively enhance your diet and allow good health to take shape.