Protein Power!

Written by Tonya Reynolds on Feb 21, 2012 3:28 pm

Protein is an important component of every cell in the body. There are lots of diets promoting protein. Protein is an organic compound consisting of 22 amino acids, otherwise know as the building blocks of life.

Protein…

*is stored in our muscles and organs

*the body utilizes it to build and repair tissues

*production of enzymes and hormones

*makes it possible for blood to carry oxygen throughout the body

*a macronutrient (like carbs) meaning the body needs relatively large amounts of it

*daily consumption should be 10%-35% of total caloric intake (men needing slightly more than women)

A lack of protein can cause loss of muscle mass, decrease immunity as well as weakening of the heart and respiratory system.

So, why are there so many diets promoting protein???

The widespread popularity of high protein diets is due in large part to their ability to help manage hunger. When protein is absorbed, it sends a signal to the brain to decrease your hunger. Protein also raises your resting metabolism by maintaining muscle mass. As we age we lose muscle mass if we are not actively exercising. Protein also leads to a much less rapid rise and fall of blood sugar and insulin. So you avoid “sugar high and lows” after eating sweets without adequate protein. Certain foods provide a healthier resource for protein than others. For example, soybeans, nuts and whole grains. These provide protein without much saturated fats and offer plenty of healthful fiber and micronutrients as well. Herbalife Formula 1 Shakes offer vegetable sources of protein, lower calorie levels with virtually no added fats. A variety of high protein shakes and snacks can be found in the “My Products” tab.

How much protein is in some of our common foods???

Dairy Beans, lentils and grains

egg whites: 7 whites=25g beans (black, pinto, etc): 1/2 cup cooked=7 g

cottage cheese: 1 cup=28g lentils: 1/2 cup cooked=9g

milk (nonfat): 1 cup=10 g quinoa: 1/2 cup cooked=6g

yogurt (nonfat, plain): 1 cup=14g tofu: 1/4 block=7g

Fish