Lean protein is the darling of the diet industry. Still married to the same low-fat dogma that brought us the obesity epidemic in the first place, mainstream weight-loss programs can’t recommend a diet based on fat. With the growing popularity of low-carb diets for weight loss, carbohydrates have also become a black sheep, leaving protein as the only “good” macronutrient left.

Paleo dieters, fortunately, aren’t interested in conforming to mainstream nutritional guidelines. Healthy animal fats are the backbone of a Paleo eating plan: even the much-demonized saturated fat is nothing to be afraid of. But this doesn’t mean that a Paleo diet excludes the other macronutrients – carbohydrates are a hotly debated topic, but everyone agrees that a healthy diet includes at least some protein. The question is not whether to eat protein, but how much protein is ideal for optimum health.

What Is Protein?

Biologically speaking, proteins are complex molecules (polymers) formed from smaller subunits called amino acids. Each of the 20 known amino acids amino acid belongs to one of three groups. The first group, called the essential amino acids, includes the ten amino acids that your body cannot make on its own; you have to get enough of them in your diet. In the second group, the nonessential amino acids, are all the amino acids that you can synthesize either from essential amino acids or from protein. Despite their name, these amino acids aren’t any less important than their essential cousins. They might not be “essential” to get in the diet, but they’re still “essential” from your body’s point of view. The third group, the conditional amino acids, contains the amino acids that are usually nonessential, but become essential when your body is under stress (for example, if you get sick).

Protein plays many important roles in the body. It’s a fundamental building block, functioning as the structural “skeleton” for cells. Various types of proteins also perform an enormous number of functions – enzymes (the substances that drive biochemical reactions like digestion) are a type of protein, other proteins help cells in your body communicate, and special motor proteins are responsible for large-scale movements like muscle contraction as well as the microscopic movements involved in cell reproduction. Proteins also help transport substances within the body, and can combine to form even more sophisticated mechanisms.

Making sure to get all 10 essential amino acids every day sounds like a tedious chore, but fortunately the answer is very simple: eat meat. Almost any kind of animal product (meat, eggs, or dairy) is a “complete protein,” meaning it contains all the essential amino acids, so on a Paleo diet, getting your amino acids in shouldn’t be a problem. The only people who have to worry about mixing and matching specific protein sources are vegetarians, since plant proteins like beans are generally not complete.

Paleo Perfect Protein:

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Essential and Nonessential Amino Acids

Essential and nonessential amino acids both produce energy and build proteins, and some form neurotransmitters and hormones. The unique chemical structure of each amino acid determines its function. Amino acids are primarily made of carbon, hydrogen, oxygen, and nitrogen. Every protein contains a specific sequence of a few to a thousand amino acids (source). Once your body digests proteins, it is left with amino acids. Your body then uses amino acids to make other beneficial proteins that help the body break down food, grow and repair tissue, and generate energy. Amino acids are classified into two main categories: essential and nonessential.

Essential Amino Acids

There are nine essential amino acids: histidine, isoleucine, leucine, lysine, methionine, phenylalanine, threonine, tryptophan, and valine. Since your body can’t produce or store essential amino acids, it is important to regularly supply your body with these important building blocks. Fill your diet with chicken, eggs, fish, beef, tuna, soybeans, nuts, chia seeds and quinoa, and take a look at the amino acid content of your favorite protein-rich foods. To ensure your body is receiving enough essential amino acids, a good rule of thumb is to consume a minimum of 0.5 grams of protein per pound of lean body weigh every day. Older adults, children, and pregnant women might require more protein and should consult with a dietitian or physician for advice. Finally, if you’re an avid athlete 18 years or older, protein requirements are much higher and may range between 1.0 and 1.5 grams per pound of lean body weight to optimize recovery and lean muscle growth.

Nonessential Amino Acids

Don’t let their name fool you – nonessential amino acids fill essential roles. Nonessential amino acids support tissue growth and repair, immune function, red blood cell formation, and hormone synthesis. However, unlike essential amino acids, a healthy body can create these proteins if given enough protein sources with essential amino acids. There are 11 nonessential amino acids: arginine, glutamine, tyrosine, cysteine, glycine, proline, serine, ornithine, alanine, asparagine, and aspartate. Of these, eight are conditional amino acids. Typically your body will be able to synthesize these amino acids. However, if you are stressed, sick, or not consuming enough protein and carbohydrates, your body might not be able to produce enough of them. The conditional amino acids are arginine, glutamine, tyrosine, cysteine, glycine, proline, serine, and ornithine.

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Are you looking for an easy way to add essential amino acids to your diet? At BarnDad Nutrition, we create high-quality protein products filled with amino acids, and we use only natural and active ingredients. You can enjoy the convenient quick fix of a protein shake or snack with our MEAT-SNX Crispy Protein Bites. Just one bag of MEAT-SNX Crispy Protein Bites delivers 20 grams of protein, 6 grams of fiber, and only 9 net carbs.

Our products are designed to help curb hunger, support muscle recovery, and increase energy for today’s active, on-the-go lifestyles. To learn more about other supplements, snacks, and foods that can help fuel your healthy and active lifestyle, visit BarnDad Nutrition today. We would love to send you a free sample!

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Protein and Fiber Benefits

Protein

Protein is a macronutrient, and it is known as one of the building blocks of life. It’s a crucial component of hair, nails, bones, muscles, cartilage, skin, and blood. Your body relies on protein to produce hormones, enzymes, and other chemicals. Protein helps your body in many other ways as well – it supports muscle growth, speeds recovery after exercise, heals injuries, and curbs hunger.

The kind of protein you ingest makes a difference. To find the most efficient sources of protein, pay attention to the protein digestibility-corrected amino acid score (PDCAAS), biological value, and amino acid content. In a recent study by Texas Woman’s University (TWU), scientists found that chicken protein is one of the very best non-allergen sources of digestible protein, with key essential amino acids for health, recovery, and energy. In this study, chicken protein also increased resting metabolism by 180 percent over dairy protein. Although more studies need to be conducted to confirm these findings, it is still great news for protein consumers on a weight-management program.

Fiber

Boosting intake of both soluble and insoluble fiber to 20–40 grams a day improves the natural production of healthy gut microflora, which supports a stronger immune system. A more efficient gut also reduces fat stores, lowers insulin spikes, and removes visceral fat. In a recent study, Litesse Fiber was shown to significantly reduce food intake, fasting plasma triglycerides, and total cholesterol levels. It also increased micro-organisms, helping to change intestinal gene expression. 

Combining These Nutrients

In general, increasing your fiber and protein intake will help you feel full and reduce your sugar cravings. The more full you feel, the fewer calories you’ll be tempted to take in –making it that much easier to say no to an unhealthy afternoon snack.

Now that you know more about protein and fiber benefits, are you ready to incorporate them into your diet? Chicken, milk, eggs, and fish are all sources of protein with good PDCAAS scores and high biological value. To increase your fiber intake, start by eating more fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, and whole grains. While there are plenty of foods that naturally contain protein and fiber, adding supplements to your diet can help you lose weight on the go.

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Looking for an easy way to add protein and fiber to your diet? At BarnDad Nutrition, we create high-quality protein and fiber products using only natural and active ingredients. You can enjoy the convenient quick fix of a protein shake or add even more fiber and flavor to your meals by incorporating our products.

BarnDad’s MEAT-SNX Crispy Protein Bites contain protein with all-natural chicken meat protein and Litesse fiber. They are designed to help curb hunger, support muscle recovery, and increase energy for today’s active, on-the-go lifestyles. One bag delivers 20 grams of protein, 6 grams of fiber, and only 9 net carbs. MEAT-SNX are available in five flavors and deliver great taste in a convenient, portable package. They’re great for kids, busy moms, athletes, seniors, or anyone who needs to increase their protein consumption. To learn more about other supplements, snacks, and foods that can help fuel your healthy and active lifestyle, visit BarnDad Nutrition today.

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Most Efficient Sources of Protein

Protein with an Ideal PDCAAS Score

Proteins are composed of long chains of amino acids, and there are 20 different types of amino acids that can make a protein. The sequence of amino acids determines each protein’s function and structure. In order to digest protein, the body unlinks the amino acids it contains, which is why the sequence of amino acids plays a role in whether or not your body can effectively digest different types of protein. Protein is digested in the stomach and small intestine, and your pancreas secretes enzymes to aid in the process.

The protein digestibility-corrected amino acid score (PDCAAS) is used to measure the quality of protein in human nutrition. The lower the PSCAAS score, the higher the quality of protein (source). In fact, the United States Food and Drug Administration and the Food and Agricultural Organization of the United Nations/World Health Organization adopted the PDCAAS rating in 1993 as the preferred method to measure the quality of protein (source). Chicken, milk, eggs, and beef are all sources of protein with good PDCAAS scores.

Protein with High Biological Value

Biological value measures how well the body absorbs a dietary protein. To calculate this score, scientists calculate the nitrogen used for tissue formation divided by the nitrogen absorbed from food. This number is multiplied by 100 and expressed as a percentage of utilized nitrogen. Represented by a number from 0 to 100, the biological value of a protein clarifies how much of the protein can be incorporated into the protein in the human body. The higher the number, the more your body will generally benefit from the protein. Protein with a low biological value is not as useful for your body because most of the protein will not be absorbed and utilized (source). 

Although biological value indicates how well protein is absorbed by the body, it doesn’t reveal whether the protein has a good balance of essential amino acids. A protein that lacks several key amino acids could score well on the test but fail to supply the consumer with the protein he or she needs. So in addition to assessing a protein’s biological value, remember to assess its amino acid content.

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Protein is a crucial component of hair, nails, bones, muscles, cartilage, skin, and blood, and your body relies on protein to produce hormones, enzymes, and other chemicals. Protein helps your body in many other ways as well – it supports muscle growth, boosts your immunity, helps heal injuries, speeds recovery after exercise, and curbs hunger. To find the most efficient sources of protein, look at their PDCAAS, biological value, and amino acid content.

At BarnDad Nutrition, we create high-quality protein products using only natural and active ingredients. You can have the convenient quick fix of a protein shake, or add even more nutrition and flavor to meals by incorporating protein powder. To learn about our products, please explore our online store, send us a message, or request a free sample. 

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Much like today’s favorite diet will soon be replaced by another, the superfood that reigns supreme in the headlines constantly changes. The spotlight shines on a familiar favorite like blueberries before shifting to a venerated veggie like spinach. Then, something more exotic, like açaí, goji berries, or maca powder, captures the imagination and the public’s attention. While the edible that tops the list of superfoods might change, there are some foods that quietly and consistently find a place on the list of foods that you should be eating. Chicken is one of these reliable foodstuffs. If you explore the nutritional value of chicken, you’ll quickly see why it continually earns expert recommendations from nutritionists, dietitians, doctors, and athletic trainers.

The Nutritional Value of Chicken

When considering the nutritional value of chicken, it’s important to look at what chicken provides. Interestingly, it is equally important to take note of what it lacks.

Protein, Vitamins, and Minerals

As the National Chicken Council reports, 3.5 ounces of roasted chicken breast has more than 30 grams of protein and just 165 calories. Eating a high-protein diet makes it easier to maintain a healthy weight by supporting the body’s efforts to build muscle, firing its metabolism, and increasing feelings of satiety so that you’re less inclined to snack mindlessly. As a bonus, chicken is a whole protein, which means that it contains all of the essential amino acids that the body must obtain from foods because it is unable to produce them itself in sufficient quantities. These amino acids provide the body with the building blocks it needs to repair and rebuild itself, so consuming plenty of high-quality protein is a great way to support your immune system, promote healing, and support recovery.

While protein is undeniably valuable, it isn’t the only nutrient of value found in chicken. This lean meat also contains L-tryptophan, an amino acid that plays a role in creating serotonin, a neurotransmitter that helps improve mood, regulate sleep, and facilitate wound healing. In addition, chicken is a good source of vitamin B3 and vitamin B6, nutrients that are vital for your metabolism and immune system. Iron, which is crucial for the production of healthy red blood cells, and zinc, which plays a role in cell growth, cell division, and immune function, are present as well. Chicken also provides phosphorus, a mineral essential for strong, healthy teeth and bones, and selenium, a mineral that contributes to both immune system function and the regulation of thyroid hormones.

What Chicken Lacks

They say that absence makes the heart grow fonder. When you’re talking about the absence of problematic substances, absence can help you stay healthy as well. Part of the reason that chicken is a favorite of health-conscious people is what it doesn’t have. While red meat is high in cholesterol and saturated fats, substances known to be bad for your cardiovascular health, chicken is different. This lean mean is low in both cholesterol and saturated fats, so it’s a popular choice among people who are trying to eat healthy. Chicken is also a naturally gluten-free food, so it’s a great option for people who are struggling with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.

Novel Ways to Incorporate More Chicken Into Your Diet

There are countless healthy dishes that contain chicken, but it’s easy to get into a recipe rut. If you want to enjoy the nutritional value of chicken, but you simply can’t face another plate full of poultry, consider reaching for a high-quality chicken protein power like BarnDad’s Real Clean Protein: Chicken & Egg White Protein Powder. Available in both orange and chocolate flavors, this protein powder can be used to make delicious shakes that provide the perfect mix of nutrition, convenience, and flexibility. Would you like to enrich your favorite recipes by adding protein during the prep? Try using an unflavored protein powder so that it’s easy to incorporate the product into the delicious dishes that you’re craving. Are you eager to power-up pasta, rice, and other dishes? CHXN-Protein Premium Protein Gravy brings both fantastic flavor and notable nutrition to the table.

At BarnDad Innovative Nutrition, we thrive on helping our customers embrace healthier lifestyles by providing them with an amazing selection of high-quality foods, snacks, and supplements. Stop by our website today to explore our full range of products.

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Foods High in Protein

Do you want to shed pounds? Are you eager to put on more muscle? Do you want to boost your metabolism or lower your blood pressure? Have concerns about maintaining bone and muscle mass as you age begun to cross your mind? Are you intent on breaking a snacking habit? Whether you have one of these specific wellness goals in mind or simply want to eat healthy, you’re liable to hear the same advice: Eat plenty of protein. A macronutrient that is key to achieving optimal health, protein is an important part of a healthy diet, so making it a point to put foods high in protein on your plate is a smart habit. What foods should be on your menu?

Beef

A 4-ounce serving of beef contains just over 30 grams of protein and around 210 calories. It’s also loaded with vitamin B12, highly bioavailable iron, and a multitude of other useful nutrients. Unfortunately, beef can also be high in saturated fat, which is notoriously bad for the health of your cardiovascular system and doesn’t do your waistline any favors. Opting for lean cuts helps, but it’s probably wise to limit your consumption of beef.

Chicken

There’s a reason so many health-conscious people consistently put chicken on their plates. A chicken breast tastes absolutely delicious, features in a near-infinite number of recipes, and delivers some 33 grams of protein in a 4-ounce serving. With that same serving containing less than 170 calories, it’s clear that chicken is also relatively low in calories. It contains far less fat than beef, so it’s a heart-healthy alternative, and it offers a bountiful list of valuable vitamins and minerals that your body needs, including various B vitamins, vitamin D, vitamin A, iron, potassium, and phosphorous. In addition, chicken, like other animal products, is a complete protein, so consuming it provides you with the essential amino acids that fuel your body’s ability to function effectively.

Eggs

Another complete protein, eggs are a great way to get protein without consuming too many calories. A large egg provides 6 grams of protein and just 78 calories. Eggs are a good source of vitamin E, vitamin D, vitamin K, calcium, zinc, and selenium. Eating an egg also provides you with a healthy assortment of antioxidants and omega-3s.

Tuna

Speaking of omega-3s, tuna is another popular source of these healthy fats, and it’s also a great source of protein. A four-ounce serving of canned tuna contains 30 grams of protein. While it delivers plenty of desirable vitamins and minerals, it’s delightfully low in both fat and calories.

Edamame

While most complete proteins are animal products, there are some exceptions, like edamame. One cup of edamame offers roughly 18 grams of protein. Eating edamame is also a good way to get iron, calcium, magnesium, potassium, folate, and vitamin C.

Almonds

Almonds might be small, but they pack a punch when it comes to protein. A single cup of whole almonds contains some 30 grams of protein; of course, it also contains more than 800 calories, so you should probably limit your portion size. Still, almonds are small, portable, and pretty tasty, so they make a fantastic, protein-rich snack that’s a cinch to enjoy whether you are relaxing at home or on the go.

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Choosing to eat foods high in protein is a sensible way to ensure that you’re getting the protein that you need, but there are times when being sensible isn’t in the cards. What if you’re hankering for a particular dish that is big on taste but lacking in protein? Believe it or not, you can probably indulge your craving without compromising your protein intake. High-quality protein powders make it easy to add protein to a meal that needs a little boost. You can wash down your treat with a protein shake or enrich the dish by adding protein to the mix as you prepare it. Are you searching for your perfect protein powder? Let us help. Visit BarnDad Innovative Nutrition’s online shop today to explore our range of top-quality protein powders.

Whether you prefer a tasty protein shake, a crunchy snack, or a low-calorie broth, products built around protein are a smart choice. Check out BarnDad Nutrition to learn more about all of our high-quality, protein-packed products.

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Whey Protein vs. Chicken Protein

When weighing whey protein vs. chicken protein, it pays to do your homework. For starters, you’ll need to identify where these proteins can be found and their usefulness as a nutrient. Since boredom has played a role in the death of more than one healthy habit, it’s also valuable to think about their versatility.

Identifying the Competition

In her nursery rhyme, Little Miss Muffet had just kicked back with a bowl of curds and whey when the spider showed up to ruin her day. If that’s your only experience with whey, you might be surprised to learn that it’s actually a popular protein source among health-conscious consumers. In fact, when people talk about whey protein, they’re likely talking about a protein powder. While whey is a protein that is found in milk and a natural byproduct of the cheese-making process, it’s only one component of milk protein. As LiveStrong.com explains, 80 percent of the protein found in cow’s milk comes from a slow-digesting protein called casein, and the remaining 20 percent comes from whey. Although whey is naturally found in dairy foods like milks, cheeses, and yogurts, people know it best as a protein powder.

Chicken generally doesn’t need an introduction. This popular poultry is widely recognized, and most people have encountered it in many forms. A versatile, lean meat, chicken provides a nice protein boost whether it’s served grilled, baked, broiled, or fried. Chicken protein is even available as a protein powder for those who want to enjoy this quality protein without the hassle of cooking it.

Biological Value

In a world where technology is everywhere, the value of being user-friendly is easy to understand. While you may not want to get bogged down with the technicalities when selecting a protein, you should know that the body finds some proteins more user-friendly than others. A protein’s biological value is a number that indicates how efficiently the human body can use a specific protein. The higher a protein’s biological value, the more usable it is. Complete proteins, which are proteins that contain all of the essential amino acids that the body must secure from food sources, tend to rank higher than incomplete proteins because they deliver more of the crucial building blocks that the body needs to maintain and improve its health.

How do whey and chicken fare? As animal products, both are complete proteins, so both score high biological values. This means that both whey and chicken can do an excellent job of delivering vital nutrition that the body can use to thrive. However, it’s worth noting that whey protein products can contain lactose since they are derived from milk. If you are lactose-intolerant or have noticed digestive upsets after consuming dairy products, you may want to avoid whey protein.

Resting Energy Expenditure

Resting energy expenditure (REE) is the rate at which you burn calories after a workout when your body is at rest, and it accounts for 60–75 percent of the calories you burn each day. To keep your REE at an elevated level, it is important to exercise at least three days a week on a routine basis (source). According to a study by Texas Woman’s University (see below), both whey protein concentrate (WPC) and chicken protein isolate (CPI) improved REE when recorded over a period of three hours. However, chicken protein had a later onset and lasted longer than whey protein. Thus, chicken will help you burn calories for a longer period of time when at rest.

Versatility

Both whey and chicken can be found in the form of protein powders, which offer tremendous versatility. Protein powders can certainly be consumed as a shake or smoothie, but they can also be used as a secret ingredient in many recipes, turning everyday dishes into protein-packed superfoods.

When it comes to whey protein vs. chicken, which offers the most versatility? Both of these proteins can also be found in whole foods, but here, chicken has a clear edge. Although whey protein can be found in many dairy products, the amount that you will receive isn’t especially impressive, and it comes with a hefty serving of fat. Consider ricotta cheese. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture National Nutrient Database for Standard Reference, a half of a cup of this cheese provides nearly 14 grams of protein, but it also contains more than 16 grams of fat.

In contrast, as the National Chicken Council points out, a 3.5-ounce boneless chicken breast delivers 31 grams of protein and just 3.6 grams of fat. In addition, chicken is a popular food choice, so there are countless recipes for preparing it readily available. With so many possibilities, it’s easy to enjoy a wide range of tastes and flavors while consuming chicken protein.

Are you eager to add more chicken protein to your diet? BarnDad Nutrition is proud to offer a top-quality selection of chicken protein products, including shakes, snack mixes, gravy, and (of course) protein powder. Visit us today to discover a range of innovative products that can help you achieve your nutrition goals.

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Fiber Facts

When exploring the importance of dietary fiber, it helps to know a bit about the substance. Also referred to as roughage or bulk, fiber refers to the parts of plant foods that the body cannot absorb or digest. When consumed, fiber remains relatively intact as it travels through the digestive tract. There are two kinds of fiber, and the difference between them is easy to understand. Soluble fiber dissolves in water: insoluble fiber does not. Most foods that contain fiber include varying combinations of both types of fiber.

Sourcing Dietary Fiber

Many foods are excellent sources of fiber. To ensure that dietary fiber is included in your daily meals, concentrate on filling your plate with plant foods like fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, and whole grains. High-quality fiber supplements can also be a good way to secure the fiber your body needs.

How Much Dietary Fiber Is Needed?

According to WebMD, most Americans get about 15 grams of fiber a day, an amount that is well short of what they need. Men should set a goal of consuming 38 grams of fiber each day. Women require slightly less; they should aim for 25 grams a day.

The Importance of Dietary Fiber for Wellness

Why is getting enough fiber so important? Regular consumption of fiber offers some amazing benefits:

Fiber Helps Manage Weight

People who regularly eat enough fiber tend to be leaner than those who skimp on it. If you increase your fiber intake, you’ll lose weight. If you’re already at a healthy weight, fiber can help you maintain it. What role does fiber play in weight management? Fiber’s bulk fills you up, reducing the amount that you eat naturally and preventing hunger pangs. Once in the digestive tract, fiber binds with some sugar and fat molecules, reducing the amount of calories the body absorbs.

Fiber Reduces the Risk of Diabetes

Fiber can help prevent spikes in blood sugar by slowing the rate of its absorption. Fiber’s talent for keeping blood sugar steady and its usefulness in maintaining a healthy weight mean that getting enough fiber can help reduce your risk of developing diabetes.

Fiber Promotes Heart Health

If heart health is a concern, fiber can be an excellent ally. Fiber is known to reduce levels of low-density lipoprotein, which is often dubbed bad cholesterol, and the benefits for your cardiovascular system don’t stop there. Eating plenty of fiber also linked with lower blood pressure and decreased inflammation.

Fiber Encourages a Healthier Microbiome

Your microbiome, the community of bacteria that live in your gut, have a major impact on your health. Fiber feeds the good bacteria, allowing them to flourish and supporting their efforts to combat inflammation.

Fiber Supports the Immune System

Support for the immune system is just one of the many benefits of eating fiber cited by the National Center for Biotechnology Information. In fact, researchers believe that consuming a high-fiber diet may also reduce your risk of colorectal cancer, breast cancer, and certain other cancers.

Fiber Is Good for Your Bones

Some types of soluble fiber increase the bioavailability of calcium and other minerals that are important for bone health. Getting your daily dose of fiber can help your body build stronger bones and support its efforts to maintain bone density.

Fiber Fights Constipation

If people know only one thing about fiber, it’s probably the fact that fiber is effective in fighting constipation. Getting enough fiber in your diet can alleviate this uncomfortable but common digestive complaint by making your stool bulkier and softer, which makes it easier for your body to pass it. As an added benefit, getting enough fiber assists with the elimination of toxins from the gastrointestinal tract with a one-two punch: Soluble fiber soaks up many problematic substances and prevents them from being absorbed while insoluble fiber speeds the travel of waste, prompting your body to shed it more quickly.

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Once you understand the importance of dietary fiber, it simply makes sense to check that you’re getting enough each day. While there are plenty of foods that contain fiber, adding a fiber supplement can be a smart idea. BarnDad’s Original FiberDX is a perfect pick. Its natural, time-release formula blends soluble and insoluble fibers to deliver the dietary fiber that your body needs to function optimally. To learn more about this and other top-quality supplements, snacks, and foods that can help fuel your healthy and active lifestyle, visit BarnDad Nutrition today.

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By: Kimberly J. Decker for nutritionaloutlook.com

Wednesday, December 6, 2017

LINK TO WEB ARTICLE

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What Does Protein Do for Your Body?

If you were asked to find a place where protein exists in the body, you wouldn’t have to look hard. Protein is in every cell. It’s found in the skin, hair, nails, bones, muscles, and connective tissues. It’s also used in enzymes, hormones, DNA, and other body chemicals. What does protein do for your body?

Protein Supports Muscle

Simply downing a protein shake won’t allow you to sprout muscles like Popeye after a spinach binge. Exercise and movement are obviously necessary if you want to increase your muscle mass. However, sufficient protein is also needed. That’s because protein provides your body with the materials it needs to repair tissue and build muscle. Interestingly, consuming protein also helps you maintain muscle, especially when the body is breaking down components the way that it does during weight loss.

Protein Boosts Immunity

Protein isn’t a magic potion that will keep all illness at bay, but it is an important part of a healthy, well-balanced diet that provides the body with the nutrients it needs to fight off viruses, bacteria, and other germs. In fact, the antibodies that the body manufacturers to fend off the things that make people sick are actually large, Y-shaped proteins. While these proteins are different from the kind that you eat, consuming protein does stimulate the immune system and provide raw materials that the body can draw on to produce these important defenders.

Protein Helps You Heal

What does protein do for your body? In addition to supporting the immune system, protein helps the body heal from injuries and speeds recovery after exercise. It makes sense. After all, protein provides the body with the resources it needs to repair damage to its tissues.

Protein Curbs Hunger

It’s frustrating, but it’s true. Eating some foods simply makes you hungrier. Consuming protein has the opposite effect. Eating protein has been shown to reduce ghrelin, a hormone associated with hunger, and increase levels of peptide YY, a satiety hormone, so people who eat protein feel fuller for longer (source). As a bonus, protein has also been shown to curb those hard-to-resist food cravings that have wreaked havoc on many a healthy diet. How does it do it? Dopamine is a brain chemical linked to addiction. Getting more protein can lead to improved dopamine function, which may result in reduced cravings.

Protein Revs Your Metabolism

Generally, people think about eating as a way to take in calories and exercising as a way to burn them, but there is a bit of an overlap. The digestion of food and the usage of the nutrients within it both require energy, which means that your body burns some calories as it processes the food that you’ve eaten. However, certain types of food demand more energy than others, so processing them burns more calories and gives your body’s metabolism a temporary boost. Protein is one of these foods. Therefore, simply eating protein revs your metabolism and prompts your body to burn additional calories.

Protein Supports Weight Loss

Being overweight increases a person’s risk of a host of chronic health conditions, including diabetes, cardiovascular problems, high blood pressure, gall bladder disease, osteoarthritis, breathing problems, and even certain cancers. For those who are trying to shift the scale to a healthier zone, protein is a fantastic ally. After all, protein reduces hunger, resulting in a natural decrease in calorie intake, and it prevents cravings for unhealthy treats. Protein also boosts the metabolism temporarily because it requires more energy to process. In addition, it helps you to build and maintain muscle mass, and more muscle results in a metabolism that works more efficiently. With this combination of factors, protein has the ability to help people shed excess pounds to achieve and maintain a healthy weight.

Protein Assists in Healthy Aging

Aging is inevitable, but aging gracefully can be tricky. Fortunately, protein can help with healthy aging. Much like it helps dieters hold onto their muscle mass, consuming protein wards of age-related muscle loss. A protein-rich diet can also help people maintain their bone mass as they age, reducing their risk of dangers like osteoporosis and fractures.

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So what does protein do for your body? Clearly this macronutrient supports human health in many significant ways. Despite its importance, the body doesn’t store protein. For optimal health, you need to continually provide the body with plenty of quality protein. That’s why many people opt to incorporate protein supplements into their daily routine. They’re a convenient way to ensure that you’re providing your body with the protein that it needs to function well.

Are you ready to add more protein to your diet? Chicken is an excellent source of protein, and today’s innovative chicken protein powders make enjoying its benefits easy. Whether you prefer a tasty protein shake, a crunchy snack, or a low-calorie broth, products built around chicken protein are a smart choice. Stop by BarnDad Nutrition today to learn more about our high-quality, protein-packed products.

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