The Importance of High Protein Foods

High protein foods are important to have in our diet. The components of a healthy diet are clear to most of us; eating a variety of foods rich in whole grains, vegetables, fruits and low servings of sugars and fats, yet, being able differentiate between foods high in nutritional value and applying these dietary requirements to daily diet can be challenging. One of the most overlooks aspects of a healthy diet is consuming foods high in protein. High protein foods offer an abundance of nutritional benefits, provide amazing muscle benefits for the body and can be found in a variety of nutritious and delicious foods.

Foods that are abundant in protein provide a variety of nutritional assistance to the human body. Protein is a macronutrient, meaning the body needs substantial amounts of it to function properly. Protein allows the body to make hormones, enzymes, and other chemicals required by the body. Additionally, protein provides the groundwork for healthy muscles, cartilage, blood and skin. Foods rich in protein help the body build lean muscle and can be converted into glucose for energy. While this method of energy is more time consuming for the body, it can burn more calories which can explain the high protein, low carbohydrate diets are so popular amongst those attempting to lose weight and build muscle.

Protein also provides the body with indispensable amino acids. While 13 of these amino acids are produced specifically by the body, the other seven essential amino acids must come from food, and more specifically, the proteins found within those foods. Proteins should make up 10 – 35% of the individual daily calorie intake. The nutritional benefits provided to the human body via proteins are extensive.

One of the most popular and valuable components of protein rich foods is the fact that proteins build lean body muscle. Muscles within the human body are primarily comprised of amino acids, which as previously noted, are the building blocks of proteins. When the body moves and functions at normal levels, muscles are exercised and amino acids and other nutrients, travel through the blood stream to help heal and maintain muscles. High protein foods that are consumed as a part of a balanced diet helps muscles recuperate so that they can maintain their purpose and function with the body properly. Other than water, protein is the most plentiful substance found within the human muscle tissue.

Proteins can be found in all varieties of foods; however, some forms of protein are more healthful and beneficial than others. It is important to weed out the protein facts from the fiction in order to understand how protein can be most advantageous. When choosing food, be aware of the nutrients and substances that accompany protein. Choose foods that are complete proteins and do not contain high saturated fats or sugars. Fish and poultry are usually the best choices of high protein foods, followed by foods in the legume family including: beans and lentils.

Red meats contain a great deal of protein, but the cuts of meat should be lean cuts, avoiding the extra fat. Meats like bison and lean grass-fed beef are the best choice for red meats. Other foods that are protein rich include foods within the dairy family such as: yogurt, cheese, and milk. Within the dairy family, choose skim foods because dairy provisions can be higher in fat and cholesterol. Eggs, avocado, bananas, and various nuts and seeds are also rich in protein.

A well balanced diet is going to contain a variety of foods. High protein diets are beneficial, but individuals should be aware of the amount of recommended protein intake for their height, weight and sex to ensure there is not an overabundance of protein, or a deficiency in protein consumption. Protein offers the human body a plethora of nutrients maintains muscle and breaks down fats. Eating a diet with the appropriate levels of protein will help ensure the body functions as it was designed.