Protein and its role in building a healthier body

Protein is one of the essential elements that form a part of a well balanced diet. It is essential as the body needs proteins to rejuvenate your muscles, skin, hair and the internal organs. It is the only source of nitrogen in the body. Because proteins cannot be directly absorbed by the blood they are broken down into amino acids. There are twenty two amino acids, eight of which are essential, which means they are to be sourced from outside the body, through food. The remaining are non essential i.e., the body processes these from within the body.

Proteins act as antibodies, and thus help us to fight and resist diseases. They help the body to repair the worn out muscles and replenish the body. Protein is important for the growth of children and also important for those recovering from a surgery or illness.

Proteins are essentially sourced from products like eggs, cheese, chicken tuna etc. They are also sourced from plants like nuts, grains, cereals etc. but these are incomplete sources of protein and it is important that these are eaten in a variety to source the protein requirement.

It is said that during exercise the body burns around 15% of the total amount of calories from protein and if this athlete does not supplement his health with protein the body extracts it s protein from lean muscle causing the athlete to burn out or feel fatigued during a workout. There are a number of protein supplements that are available in the market. It is important to choose a protein powder with care. When looking for a protein powder look for a powder that does not contain sugar like white sugar, sucrose, dextrose, maltose, corn sweeteners or artificial sweeteners like aspartame.

Among the different protein supplements that are available in the market today are:

Whey Protein: Whey protein is a very good protein supplement. These are concentrated proteins that have gone through a process where most of carbohydrates, fat and lactose are removed from whey.

Casein: milk protein: This protein is found in milk and can b sourced through cheese, and cottage cheese. It is low in lactose and contains all the essential amino acids. The slow digestion of this food ensures that you feel full for a longer period of time.

Egg protein: Egg protein is said to contain all the 22 amino acids and also has the right balance of the eight essential amino acids. Egg white protein powder is believed to have zero cholesterol.

Soy Protein: Soy Protein is obtained from Soya Beans. The process ensures that most of the fat and cholesterol are removed, giving you pure protein.

Whatever, the type of protein powder supplement you choose to buy, remember, to consult a physician before you buy.