 | Cathy Lloyd is an RN/RT who has worked in the field of nutrition and healthcare for 29 years. Cathy is the owner / operator of Piece Of Cake Nutrition along with her husband Kevin Lloyd located at 512 N. Broadway, Pittsburg KS, 66762. Piece Of Cake Nutrition specializes in helping people meet their overall health goals. They hold monthly weight loss challenges, daily exercise classes, and provide healthy treats, smoothies, shakes, and supplements. Everyone who walks through the door gets a free health evaluation. For more information or to schedule an appointment call 620-687-3924 or e-mail kevncat2005@gmail.com |
Health & Wellness
2012-01-26 16:52:24
Protein…our body’s most important component? series - part 1
Q: You hear so much about protein as it relates building muscle, recover, etc. Now you hear of all these protein diets. Is this a fad or is protein really THAT important?
A: Protein diets seem to be the talk. Everywhere you can read about how protein can help you lose, gain or maintain your weight as well as build muscle. The importance of protein, however, extends far beyond how they affect our physical appearance.
Protein is an important component of every cell in the body. It is an organic compound that is made of 22 amino acids which are known as the building blocks of life. It makes up 16% of our total body weight. Connective tissue is made up of protein. Hair and nails are mostly made of protein. Your body uses protein to build and repair tissues. Many of our body’s important chemicals like enzymes, hormones, neurotransmitters and even our DNA are partially made of protein. Protein is an important building block of bones, muscles, cartilage, skin and blood.
Along with fat and carbohydrates, protein is a “macronutrient,” meaning that the body needs relatively large amounts of it. Vitamins and minerals, which are needed in only small quantities, are called “micronutrients.” But unlike fat and carbohydrates, the body does not store protein and therefore has no reservoir to draw on when it needs a new supply. A lack of protein can result in loss of muscle mass, decreased immunity as well as weakening of the heart and respiratory system.
Not all proteins are alike. You need to get the balance of the right kind of proteins. You can obtain healthy sources of proteins without high levels of saturated fats. Part of the reason some protein diets are not necessarily good for you is because they have you eating more animal based proteins: which also contain high levels of saturated fats. While you may lose some weight, you won’t like what it does to your LDL (bad) cholesterol. It can lead to heart disease. There are proteins that have lower levels of or no saturated fats at all. This type of protein comes from plant based proteins. The American Society for Nephrology states that two thirds of our ingested protein should be plant based. They not only are easier for the body to digest, they also contain healthful fiber and micronutrients as well.
Next month, we’ll discuss the importance of having a healthy mix of protein types and the different types of protein diets.
