The importance of protein, is it that important? Is it necessary? Let’s find out….
Protein is necessary for the human body as it is part of the structure for every cell and tissue in the body, ( Muscles, internal organs, tendons,skin, hair ect). In fact protein is needed for the growth and formation of new tissue caused by damage and these tissues need to be repaired (with protein as the building block). On average our total body weight is roughly 20% protein. Protein is one of three nutrients, carbs, fats and protein. Having too much protein gives you no more advantage than sticking to a nutritional guidance program plan with the correct allocated micro nutrients, additional protein won’t be converted into muscle, so pay attention to your calorie consumption.
A majority of the public know protein is broken down into amino acids, which can be hundreds or thousands of small units which are attached to one another in long chains. There are 20 different types of amino acids that can be combined to make protein, these are coded by the DNA building block.
Protein also provides the human body working muscles with a small fuel source. Does this mean beginners need more protein than experienced trainers? This is true but only for three weeks. The human body adapts to the exercise and becomes more efficient at recycling protein
“One study has shown that the requirements per KG body weight of novice build builders can be up to 40% higher than those of experience bodybuilders (Tarnopolsky, 1998)”.
Good Sources of protein examples:
- Beef, Steak
- Chicken breast
- Turkey
- Cod
- Tuna
- Cottage cheese
- Eggs
- Nuts and seeds
- Tofu burgers, tofu
- Quorn mince, Chilli, Korma
- Red kidney beans, Chickpeas
- Milk