When you ingest protein, your body breaks it down into amino acids. Your body then uses these to build and repair tissues such as bones, muscles and cartilage. They are needed to make enzymes (which are necessary for many chemical reactions in the body), and hormones such as oestrogen and insulin (including regulation). It is very necessary to keep our body working and repairing!
“But what about for ME? I just want to know about things I can actually relate to.”
No problem.
- Protein is more filling than carbohydrate, so you actually feel fuller for longer.
- Increasing your protein intake can help with controlling the urge to snack – especially in the evenings.
- Protein helps with lowering and managing blood glucose – this isn’t just important for diabetics, but for all of us.
- Helps the body burn more fat. (Oh yes please!)
- It can help you maintain any weight loss. (Again, yes please!)
- Protein increases production of “happy” neurotransmitters (woo hoo!)
Some good sources of protein: eggs, beans (black beans, lentils, chickpeas, etc), fish (especially fatty fish), beef, chicken, oats, hemp seeds, quinoa, yoghurt, cheese, avocado, nuts, tofu