5 Reasons Why It Is Important To Eat Enough Protein
Why eating protein-rich foods is important
Protein is an essential part of our diets, and it is far more important than we realise. Sure, it helps you build muscle, but its benefits extend beyond helping you get those gainz.
Even if you’re not an avid gym goer, eating enough protein can impact your health and well-being in myriad ways, from boosting your immune system to improving your brainpower. Lest you need more convincing, here’s why it’s important to eat protein-rich foods, alongside tips and tricks to getting enough protein in your diet.
How much protein do I need? First things first: how much protein do you need?
According to HealthHub, for the average Singaporean adult aged 18 to 49, the recommended daily protein intake is around 0.8g per kg of body weight. Typically, this means that adults aged 18 to 49 should consume approximately 50g to 60g of protein each day.
However, adults aged 50 and above should aim for a higher intake of 1.2g per kg of body weight.
Protein helps keep you full
If you find yourself prone to snacking often and want to kick the habit, it’s a sign that you probably need more protein in your diet. Protein helps you feel fuller for longer, which can curb your pesky snack cravings and minimise over-eating. Also, your body burns more calories digesting protein than it does with fats or carbs, giving your metabolism a little boost.
Protein helps improve your brainpower and focus
We’re all guilty of the midday slump where our brains start wandering from our task at hand. Try adding more protein to your meals and see the difference it can make! Eating enough protein has scientifically proven benefits on your focus, mood, and attention span. How? Well, amino acids from proteins are essential for creating neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine, which influence mood, focus, and attention. Additionally, protein helps stabilise blood sugar levels, preventing energy dips that can lead to fatigue and reduced concentration.
Protein keeps your bones strong
Growing up, you’ve probably been schooled to drink more milk because calcium builds strong bones. Well, protein is equally important for bone health as well! Getting enough protein can help maintain bone density and reduce the risk of fractures, especially as you get older.
Protein boosts your immune system
The pandemic enforced the importance of having a strong immune system on us all. Eating adequate amounts of protein can actually boost your immune system, as said system relies on protein to create antibodies. Antibodies help your body fight off illnesses and recover faster, but having a strong immune system overall also means you minimise your chances of falling sick. There’s a reason why people recommend chicken soup and chicken essence when you’re down with the flu, after all.
Protein helps keep your hair, skin, and nails healthy
Collagen supplements are all the rage right now because they promise stronger and shinier hair and nails, as well as anti-ageing benefits for your complexion. FYI: collagen is actually a protein, and you don’t need to splurge on pure collagen supplements to reap its benefits. Just be sure you consume enough protein daily, and you’ll look as good as you feel.
