Protein, why we need it
Why is nutrition so important?
When working on a wellness program designed to restore mobility and improve strength and cardiovascular function is useless if you do nothing to address your nutrition.
It's like completely restoring a 1969 Ford Mustang only to put diesel fuel in the tank.
Think about this: A good massage therapist acupuncturist, or physical therapist can tell which of their clients are nourished improperly. Not only are the tissues much slower to repair themselves and/or fail to respond to typical treatments, but they even feel different to the touch.
Why is protein so important?
It seems to be universally agreed upon that protein is important. Most people consume enough to prevent deficiencies, but not enough to optimize their health. What are four major reasons you should work more protein into your diet?
Protein keeps you full longer and reduces appetite. Protein is by far the most filling macronutrient and helps you feel more full with less calorie consumption. If improving your body composition is something that will help you live a healthier life, then protein should be a priority food item.
Protein is your building block for increased strength and muscle. If you are physically active, lifting weights and trying to increase muscle tone, make sure you are consuming enough protein to get the full potential of the hard work you are putting in. If you are over 60, getting enough protein will help prevent age related muscle loss.
Protein is good for maintaining bone mineral density. Protein consumption can actually help prevent osteoporosis and reduce risk of fractures.
Protein consumption boosts metabolism. For the same reason that protein keeps you full for longer, protein also revs up your metabolism. Protein takes more energy to digest that carbohydrates which means that the body burns more calories to get the protein you consume to the places it needs to go in the body than other foods.
