We may receive a commission on purchases made from links.
As a health-conscious person, you’ve probably seen it all when it comes to dietary recommendations.
No, wait, it’s actually sugar that makes you fat.
Bring on the omega 3’s!
Protein has become pretty trendy, too.
With so many low carb diets out there, protein is filling the gap.
“These days, most of the hot fad diets are very pro-protein.”
Not sure if you’re missing out?
Read on to see if any of these symptoms sound familiar.
Our bodies are smart.
Protein helps keep ourimmune system cellshealthy and working.
Our immune cells need enough protein to repair themselves and to multiply.
“If you are under-eating protein, over time your immune system may weaken.”
That cut still hasn’t healed
Our bodies need protein forrecovery and repair.
That’s why athletes look for a protein snack after a long run or intense workout.
Our bodies are craving it to repair our muscles.
We use protein to grow new cells, tissue and skin.
white flour and sugar).
“That up-and-down is where cravings come in.”
Protein helps to stabilize ourblood sugar levels.
When you eat a meal of chicken breast over salad, your blood sugar really isn’t affected much.
Even healthy carbs by themselves can send our blood sugars skyrocketing.
Rather than having a slice of whole wheat bread with jelly, smear on some butter or hummus instead.
Your ankles are puffy
Protein has a lot of jobs.
In addition to healing our bodies, it also keeps things running smoothly.
Protein is key forpulling fluid backinto our blood vessels and not letting it escape into other tissues.
Protein helps bring salt back into the blood vessels, which then attracts fluid back in.
Maybe after a long flight you’ve noticed that your shoes feel a little tight.
That’s because fluid has pooled around our feet and ankles, causing swelling and tight, shiny skin.
Swelling in our feet and ankles could signal that you’re not getting enough protein.
If you’ve been noticing this edema, take a look at your diet.
You feel off, shaky, and maybe a little cranky?
Otherwise, get ready for the hangry monster to take over.
Your hair is falling out
We’re all after that elusive silky, lustrous hair.
So many of us focus on the surface, on what shampoo, conditioner, and products to use.
However, beautiful hair comes from the inside out.
I know, I also think hair is an essential body part but not so much.
Once your hair doesn’t get the nutrients it needs, it starts falling out.
A fit body starts in the kitchen.
This starts in the muscles.
Do yourself a favor and whip up a protein smoothie if you haven’t been getting enough.
Don’t let all those squats go to waste!
How much protein do we need?
There are about 2.2 pounds in a kilogram.
Can’t stand the fishy smell?
Check out other high protein foods like poultry, eggs, red meat, and dairy.
The important thing is to eat a wide variety of foods in the protein family.
“Calorie-restrictive diets sometimes can lead to decreased protein intake.”
Be careful with dieting
Have a big beach vacation or high school reunion coming up?
Many of us cut down on our food intake any time we’re trying to lose weight.
It makes sense, right?
Less calories in must mean weight loss.
However, when it comes to protein, it’s not so simple.
Our bodies actuallyneed a steady supply of proteinif we’re trying to lose weight.
Protein keeps us full and satisfied.
Protein also keeps that metabolism of yours humming along much more than other nutrients like carbohydrates or fats.
In weight loss studies for obese individuals, the groups eating adequate amounts of protein lost the most weight.
If you eat meat, focus on lean proteins like chicken breast.
If meat’s not your thing, stick with satisfying nuts, seeds, and beans.
And if you’re an athlete or are burning tons of calories, you’ll need even more protein.
No need for supplements!"
