We all know protein is good for us. But do you know why protein is important? Read on to find out all the amazing things protein does for our bodies!
- Keeps you fuller, longer
Amping up your protein intake is the way to go if you want to reduce those hunger pangs. Protein keeps us satisfied longer after a meal, much longer than carbs and fat do. Why? Because protein increases the levels of hormones such as peptide YY and ghrelin, which regulate weight and promotes satiety.
- Reduces cravings
So, since protein keeps us fuller, longer, the urge to snack throughout the day or evening is also reduced. Studies show that eating protein improves dopamine functions, which is one of the hormones responsible for cravings and addiction.
- Boosts metabolism
Studies also show that higher protein intakes, combined with exercise, improves your body’s metabolism and burns more calories–as much as 100 extra calories a day! Protein also promotes thermogenesis in the body, which means it increases your body’s temperature, facilitating the fat-burning process.
- Helps with weight loss
With all of the above reasons, we can see that adequate protein intake ultimately helps people lose weight and keep it off long term. Click here for delicious, satisfying and protein-packed smoothie recipes that are easy to incorporate into any lifestyle.
- Increase Muscle Mass
Protein is a building block of the body made up of amino acids, which is necessary to build muscle mass. Eating the protein your body needs, especially a complete protein such as No Yolking™ 100% Egg White Protein Powder, helps your body build and increase muscle mass. A must if weight training is your game. If you’re aiming to lose weight, protein also ensures you don’t lose muscle mass.
- Helps body repair muscles
After your workout session, especially resistance exercise, your body needs protein to repair broken muscle fibres and improve protein synthesis. Protein also helps restore energy to the body after a workout or injury, so you can recover faster.
- Helps with aging of muscles
Eating more protein also helps reduce age-related muscle loss, called sarcopenia. Combined with resistance exercise, protein tells your body to strengthen and grow muscles.
- Good for your bones
Protein also helps maintain bone mass and promote bone health, which is especially important for older women who have osteoporosis on their minds.
- Helps stabilize blood sugar
Adequate amounts of protein intake helps regulate blood sugar levels, and helps you avoid sugar “spikes” throughout the day as it is responsible for slowing down digestion. This is so important for those living with diabetes or anyone with a metabolic issue.
Bonus! Protein boosts the immune system
Protein is a critical nutrient for the growth and maintenance of immune cells. Amping up your protein intake helps your body build and repair tissue (thanks to those amino acids!), and thus respond better to a viral or bacterial infection.
