06/29/2022
Choosing Healthy Protein
When it comes to protein consumption, quality is just as essential as quantity. Here's everything you need to know to maintain your body and mind in good shape.
What exactly is protein?
Protein in your diet gives you energy while also supporting your mood and cognitive performance. It is a necessary nutrient for the formation, maintenance, and repair of tissues, cells, and organs throughout the body. While it is present in many of the foods we consume on a daily basis, it is frequently misconstrued as a component of our diets.
Protein is broken down into the 20 amino acids that are the body's basic building blocks for development and energy when you ingest it. Tryptophan regulates mood through generating serotonin, which helps alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety while also improving overall cognitive function.
Most animal sources of protein, such as meat, poultry, fish, eggs, and dairy, deliver all the amino acids your body needs, while plant-based protein sources such as grains, beans, vegetables, and nuts often lack one or more of the essential amino acids. However, that doesn’t mean you have to eat animal products to get the right amino acids. By eating a variety of plant-based sources of protein each day you can ensure your body gets all the essential amino acids it needs.