Traditionally powdered
protein supplements have been looked at as ‘body
building’ sports supplements.. Here, Liz Chandler, from Natures Corner,
dispels the myth
and tells us why protein is so important for good health.
Protein is the most abundant substance in the body after water and is wonderful
for maintaining smooth skin and great muscle tone. It is vitally important
for the growth, maintenance and repair of all body tissues and is one of
the most important components of a healthy diet.
If we do not consume enough protein our bodies may age prematurely as it
is a major component of bones, muscles, blood, nerves, internal organs, hair,
skin, nails, ligaments and tendons. Protein is also known to improve the
immune function and a deficiency may lead to complaints such as rough skin,
brittle nails, thinning hair, poor muscle tone, wrinkles and stretch marks.
Protein is made up of a combination of amino acids, 22 of which are required
by the human body, and these are the building blocks of our bodies. 8 of
these are known as essential amino acids because they must be consumed in
the diet and cannot be synthesised by the body. Common complete protein foods
containing all 8 amino acids include meat, eggs and dairy products.
Whey protein is not only a complete protein but it is also one of the purist
and most easily absorbed forms. It is known to have a low GI rating, is low
in fat and cholesterol and lactose free.
So here are 6 good reasons why Whey Protein is good for you:
Ageing – whey protein can help to maintain muscle mass, which commonly
decreases with ageing
Immune Health – By replenishing the body’s
levels of glutathione and immunoglobulin, both important immune-regulating
compound, whey protein supports optimum immune health.
Weight Management – protein
has appetite suppressing and blood sugar-stabilising properties, and in studies,
people given a whey protein drink before meals, feel less hungry when consuming
fewer calories. In addition, whey protein helps to preserve valuable lean
tissue (muscle) which is vital for supporting metabolism.
Cardiovascular Health – Research has consistently shown that diet plays
a pivotal role in heart health and whey protein contains certain compounds
that may have a positive effect on cardiovascular health.
Bone Health – Although
there is concern over excess protein and calcium depletion, recent studies
have demonstrated that adequate protein and calcium almost certainly work
synergistically to maintain bone mass. Exciting new research even suggests
that whey protein may enhance the development of bone forming cells known
as osteoblasts.
Sports Nutrition – As well as helping with increased
lean muscle, whey protein has other benefits for both endurance and strength
athletes. The ingestion of protein after training is associated with quicker
recovery and improvement in training.
Solgar’s Whey to Go Protein blends easily and tastes great in smoothies
and shakes and can even be added to sauces, cereals, muffins, pancakes and
other bake mixes.
For more advice on a healthy lifestyle call Natures Corner
on 01635 33007,
or email info@naturescorner.co.uk or
please call in and see us.