What is Protein and Why Do We Need It?

What is protein really? Protein is made up of amino acids. There are 22 different amino acids in all. Although many of these are generated within the body, eight of them cannot be made by the body. Since there is a risk that the body is low on those particular eight at any given moment - due to our inability to produce them - these are referred to essential amino acids.

The body uses these to make cell membranes and tissues as well as connective tissues, regulatory proteins and enzymes. Protein comprises close to 16% of your total body weight. Your hormones, neurotransmitters, enzymes, DNA, and even hemoglobin are all made from protein.

What difference does it make what my protein source is? You want to make sure you eat what is called complete protein. These are protein sources encompassing all of the amino acids we need. Animal proteins contain all of these. Plant sources do not. So when you eat milk or meat, you're ingesting all 22 amino acids. When you eat beans or nuts, you are not. The key is to eat a wide variety and to make sure you are choosing the best sources possible.

Many animal proteins provide the necessary amino acids, but they also offer a high amount of fat. If you choose animal proteins, go with poultry and fish. Red meat can be consumed, but opt for leanest cuts. Plant protein sources provide fiber along with the protein.

You can combine your plant protein with another source and get all 22 in a meal. For instance, eating peanuts does not provide the body all of the amino acids. However, spread peanut butter over wheat bread and you now have all of the amino acids your body needs. Take red beans as another example. If you eat them alone, you're deficient in some amino acids. But add rice to your red beans and you have a complete set.

You also want to guard against eating too much protein, since it cannot be stored like carbohydrates can. Excess protein leads to the leaking of calcium into the urine and damages the kidneys. Some people are at a risk for not getting enough protein. Athletes in sports requiring lower body weight, vegetarians, and athletes who travel extensively are vulnerable to decreased protein intake. It's important to maintain protein levels to avoid the body feasting on its own muscles to generate the essential eight amino acids it cannot make alone.

This is why some athletes choose to supplement with protein shakes or capsules. However, since protein cannot be stored, this is a solution only for those who truly need it. Protein supplements may be expensive.

My name is Rhys Gwilliam and I'm a 16-year old kid from the beautiful islands of New Zealand ("Aotearoa"). I am a keen sportsman and understand that good nutrition and exercise is essential to stay in peak form. So you could say that I have a passion for health. I enjoy sharing my personal experiences and my daily goal is to help others live healthier lives.

That's why I designed a blog to share my sports nutrition tips & ideas for a healthier lifestyle with you. Simply head over to http://www.rhysgwilliam.com where I'll be waiting for you.