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How Much Protein Do We Need?

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Protein is one of the major nutrients of the body that serves as a major building block of a number of body components such as muscles, hair, nails and more. Proteins also play a major role in carrying out the metabolic activities of the body. This is because they are major components of hormones and enzymes that play crucial role in body metabolic activities.

Proteins are made of amino acids. There are twenty amino acids of which the body cannot make nine of them. Hence, they have to be provided from external sources to meet the protein requirement of the body. Animal foods and certain plant foods serve as good sources of proteins. However, while having animal foods, the amount of fat content should also be taken care to avoid certain heart problems that arise due to increased levels of blood cholesterol.

The amount of protein consumed through our diet should meet the body requirements. Protein needs of the body are determined by the age, size and the activity level. Kids and teenagers who are at growth spurt need more amount of proteins to meet the demands of the growing boy. People whose daily activity levels are very high also need high protein content. Protein requirement of the body can be determined by multiplying the body weight in kilograms with 8.

Body requirements of the protein increase in cases such as recovery from a disease and when practicing heavy workouts. This is mainly to support the muscle repair process and to recuperate the body immune system.

Some individuals, who are on regulated diet to reduce the excess weight, consume diet that is low in proteins and calories. But, this is not recommended. Having low amounts of proteins causes a great number of body ailments due to reduced immunity. Having lower amounts of proteins also curtails the ability of the body to carryout normal physical activity. Hence, even if you are on a low calorie diet, it is essential to consume diet rich in proteins.

Though body needs good amount of protein, it is essential to make sure that other needs of the body such as the calorie needs are met. However, there is no danger of having increased amounts of protein through the diet. This is because of the ability of the body to convert proteins into glucose that is slowly absorbed into the blood stream. Hence, it is very beneficial for people with diabetes to consume food rich in protein than carbohydrates to maintain the blood sugar levels at optimum range.

Another simple way to judge the body requirement of protein is to carefully listen to what your body says. If you are having a feeling of fatigue and are becoming a victim of infections very frequently, then it is a sign of poor nutrition. In such cases, just increase your protein intake and everything will start to settle. Similarly, if you are constantly increasing weight reduce your intake to the levels that are enough to meet the body requirement.

Lastly, the amount of protein the body needs is determined entirely by the body condition and the regular physical activity levels.