The Health Benefits
Eating foods high in protein on a daily basis is recommended because proteins are needed for just about every body function. Our tissues, organs, muscles, and hormones are all made from proteins. High-protein foods offer many of the nutrients needed for our body to develop, grow, and function correctly.
Consuming enough protein every day provides a host of health benefits. Among other things, it enhances muscle mass, aids with managing our weight and stabilizing our blood sugar levels, and betters our mood.
Increases Muscle Mass
Eating enough foods high in protein is needed to build and maintain healthy muscle mass, along with supporting tendons and ligaments. High-protein foods are essential for “bodybuilding” and for developing leaner muscles too.
Aids With Managing Our Weight
Protein increases satiety to a greater extent than carbohydrates do so we are less likely to overeat or snack.
Stabilizes Blood Sugar Levels
When we consume foods with protein, this has a minimal effect on blood glucose levels and it can actually slow down the absorption of sugar during a meal. This can aid with preventing spikes in blood glucose, which is especially good for balancing energy levels, and keeping our appetite in check.
Betters Our Mood
Some amino acids from high-protein foods are required to balance hormones naturally and control our mood. Proteins help neurotransmitters function and synthesize hormones like dopamine and serotonin, which is good for calming us and keeping our outlook positive. As protein aids with stabilizing glucose in our blood, it also staves off mood changes, irritability, and cravings that can happen due to fluctuating blood sugar levels.
On a Final Note
If we don’t eat enough high-protein foods, we become at risk of deficiencies in certain amino acids. This can lead to numerous health issues, such as low energy, mood swings, difficulty losing weight, poor sleep, low immunity, and unstable blood sugar levels. I make sure I consume proteins every day: eggs, fish, and/or various meats including organ meats – which are so nutrient-dense! What are your favorite types of protein foods?
Until next time!
Reference
Dr. Josh Axe. “23 High-Protein Foods (for Weight Loss and Muscle Gain).” Dr. Axe, 6 Apr. 2021, draxe.com/nutrition/protein-foods/. Accessed 25 Sept. 2021.
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