Why Proteins Are Called Bodybuilding Food?

Proteins are often called bodybuilding food – do you know why? Well, they are a major component of our muscle, bone, skin, organs, nails, and hair. They help our body build as well as repair tissues and cells.

And that’s not all. They also maintain fluid and pH balance in our bodies. This is why proteins are one of the most important parts of any diet.

Now, let’s get back to the question – why are proteins called bodybuilding food?

But before discussing the answer, let’s dig deeper to find more about proteins.

What Are Proteins?

Proteins are large molecules that play an important role in building our tissues. They are made up of long amino acid chains. Twenty different amino acids are there in total. Each protein functions differently. Also, their structures are different. Their functions and structures are determined by order of amino acids.

Proteins can either be complete or incomplete. Complete proteins contain all essential amino acids. On the other hand, incomplete proteins lack essential amino acids. Animal products and soy are complete proteins, while plant foods like nuts, grains, and beans are incomplete proteins.

What Are the Functions of Proteins?

We have proteins in every cell, and it is necessary to have adequate protein in order to keep our tissues, muscles, and bones healthy.

Proteins play a vital role in:

• Fluid balance
• Blood clotting
• Hormones
• Vision
• Enzymes

We need proteins for growth and development. Pregnant women, children, and teenagers need proteins the most.

Why Are Proteins Considered Bodybuilding Food?

Proteins are considered bodybuilding food because they play a crucial role in building and repairing tissues. Also, they help in our growth.

Well, this is not the end. They also help our immune systems fight any viral infections.

Protein Sources – High Protein Foods

Proteins are essential, and having adequate proteins is a must. You can have proteins from both animal and plant-based foods. Here are some high protein sources.

• Lean meats and poultry
• Seafood
• Soy products
• Eggs
• Nuts
• Seeds and more

Whole grains and dairy products, including cheese, yogurt, and milk, are also protein sources. But vegetables and whole grains contain less protein compared to other sources.

Animal products are the best protein sources. If you are a vegetarian, make sure that you have adequate proteins from plant-based foods.

Protein Deficiency – What Happens If You Do Not Get Adequate Proteins?

Low protein intake could be a serious problem, especially for children and pregnant women. If you fail to have adequate protein, this may lead to malnutrition, which can be life-threatening.

People who have the following health conditions often fail to have enough protein.

• Anorexia or eating disorder
• Specific genetic conditions
• Irritable bowel syndrome
• Advanced cancer stages

You may have the below mentioned health problems due to protein deficiency:

• Thin hair
• Swelling because of fluid retention
• Weak muscles
• Skin lesions
• Growth deficits in children
• Muscle mass loss in adults
• Hormonal imbalances

To avoid these health issues, make sure you eat adequate proteins every day.

Tips on How to Get Adequate Proteins

To get adequate proteins, make sure you maintain a healthful diet daily. Consume high protein foods like lean meat, fish, beans, soy, seeds, and nuts. Here are some handy tips on how you can add more proteins to your daily diet:

• Make soups and side dishes with peas and beans.

• Consume high-protein snacks like roasted chicken peas, peanut butter, and nuts instead of regular snacks.

• Add one high protein food to every meal

• Replace carbohydrate foods with protein foods

• To avoid high fat intake risk, consider consuming lean meat, dairy products, and poultry. Also, use proper cooking methods so that extra fat is not added.

Final Words:

Protein being the major component of our bones, muscles, skin, and organs, it is necessary for everyone to meet their daily protein needs.

If you want to increase your protein intake, consider adding some high protein foods to your diet chart.

When you get an adequate protein daily along with other components like carbohydrates and proteins, you will stay healthy and fit.