Protein: Do you really know why you need it?

Protein: Do you really know why you need it?

 

What is protein?

Is it just for building lean muscle?

Proteins are complex organic compound chains made up of subunits called amino acids. They are linked together by peptide bonds to form chains that support various functions in the body.

There are 20 different amino acids that combine together to form polypeptides, also known as proteins. Some being essential and others non-essential. Our bodies can synthesise some proteins where others are obtained through our diet.

What role does protein have in the body?

Proteins are an integral part of building, repair and functionality of the body.

  • Proteins come in different shapes depending on their function. They play a role in enzyme production, cell singling, immune defence, structural building, support and transportation of other nutrients.
  • Proteins provide function to cellular membranes. Integral proteins can act as channels, pores and carriers of things in and out of cells. Peripheral proteins  can bind chemicals and facilitate enzymatic reactions within the cells.
  • Proteins can either be integral or peripheral. 
  • As enzymes they accelerate the rate of metabolic reactions.
  • Create structural supports for inside and outside of the cells.
  • Protein antibodies protect against infections by acting as a defence.
  • Assist with regulating osmotic pressure of the blood.
  • Fibrous proteins proved the structural support for hair, skin, nails and connective tissues.
  • Oxygen transportation, via the molecule haemoglobin.
  • Support the repair of damaged tissues in the body.
  • Support muscle growth and development in the body.
  • Assist in the regulation and gene activitation of hormones and growth factors.

How much protein do I really need?

Taking excessive amounts of protein can lead to extra stress placed upon the kidneys. This will be measure in through a blood test as Nitrogenous waste. As necessary as protein is in a healthy diet, be aware that understanding how much you need is key. 

06-0.8gm multiplied by your body weight is the recommended daily amount. This may vary depending on stage of life, level of activity and body weight. This is the average requirement for most people. When supplementing with protein it is important to take these factors into consideration. 

Sources of protein vary. All foods contain amino acids, so eat a wide variety of foods to ensure you get the right amount for your body. If you take protein supplements ensure you do so along side a healthy nutritional plan. 

If you require support to do this, or would like to understand  what your body needs based on your lifestyle, do not hesitate to ask one of Naturopaths or Nutritionists. We have extensive experience and can help you find what you need whether you are an elite level athlete as well as any stage of life.

For more recipes to restore your health and energy:

https://alkalinesuperfoods.com.au/blogs/news

For Healthy Recipes and supplements click the links below!

Alkaline Vegan Protein is raw, chemical and hexane-free, easily digestible, hypoallergenic, all natural, more earth-friendly, and most importantly extremely delicious! Plant Proteins are a fantastic alternative to whey protein as they boast a complete amino acid profile while being lower in cholesterol.   Alkaline Extreme Protein is a special blend of Whey Protein Isolate, Micellar Casein and Alkalising Minerals (Calcium, Magnesium and Potassium) to provide an alkaline mineral buffer so that dairy protein can work in a healthier way. It helps buffer lactic acid in the body and is gentle on the stomach so you can workout harder for a longer and achieve the best results.       Discover the "Secrets" to Create Mouth-Watering Foods and Munchies that Clear Your Skin, Explode Your Energy Levels AND Make You FEEL TERRIFIC! The Alkaline Cook Book is Crammed with easy to whip up "pH friendly" recipes to help you unlock "unlimited" energy, sharp mental concentration and radiant good health!


For more Alkaline Recipes have a look at our Alkaline Cookbook 

Eat Well! Be Well & Enjoy Life!

With Love,

Niki is a dynamic, talented Naturopath and Blood Microscopist. She has a specialised interest in Alkaline nutrition, Vegetarian/Vegan diets and maintaining the Acid/Alkaline balance in the body. She started out as a remedial Massage therapist with a focus on elite athletes and dancers, which in turn created the drive to add natural remedies and nutrition to support her clients through Naturopathic medicine. She has also been trained as a Blood Microscopist in the USA at the ‘The pH Miracle Centre in California by Dr Robert Young. Niki specialises in both live and dried blood analysis techniques. By viewing a single drop of blood under a high-powered microscope, the body’s internal environment can be assessed to determine the quality and health of the red blood cells, demonstrating how diet and lifestyle choices directly influence your health. ‘Change your blood, and change your health’ is Niki’s moto. Nutrition is one of Niki’s passions. She uses ‘food as medicine’ to help people overcome various health challenges, manage their weight and achieve wellness by designing complete health and lifestyle programmes to help them reach their goals. She runs regular workshops, presentations and small group classes teaching the principles of Alkaline Vegan cooking, with fun, easy and healthy plant-based recipes. Niki has written for Brisbane Kids, Motivated Mummy magazine, Plant Built Mums, Alkaline Superfoods and Mova Fitness Magazine. She spends her time travelling and consulting between her Melbourne practice, the USA and Asia, while being a busy mum to 2 energetic and vibrant little kids. Together with her partner she runs Alkaline Superfoods, providing supplements, education and support to those wanting to have optimal health and vitality.
Niki Angelopoulos
Naturopath & Live Blood Microscopist
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