Protein intake, in some way, shape, or form; is necessary for all of us to survive. Without adequate protein intake, we may end up sick and unwell. It’s the building block of our body and many of us are simply not receiving enough protein on a daily basis. Throughout this post, we’ll be discussing the benefits of consuming enough protein and how it may positively affect our body. Enjoy!
Adequate Protein Intake
What is adequate protein intake for you? That’s a great question! Here is a breakdown of how much protein you’ll need on average:
The Dietary Guidelines for Americans, put together by the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, recommend the following daily amounts of protein for different age groups:
- Children under 4: 13 grams
- Children ages 4 to 8: 19 grams
- Children ages 9 to 13: 34 grams
- Women and girls ages 14 and over: 46 grams
- Boys ages 14 to 18: 52 grams
- Men ages 19 and over: 56 grams
The Benefits of Protein
WebMd states the following: “Protein is also a critical part of the processes that fuel your energy and carry oxygen throughout your body in your blood. It also helps make antibodies that fight off infections and illnesses and helps keep cells healthy and create new ones.”
This statement should easily persuade you to increase your consumption of protein if you’re not consuming enough. Protein helps in more ways than one.
Protein Provides Energy
Eating a nice protein-rich breakfast with other valuable foods such as fruits, vegetables, and healthy grains can help provide us with enough energy to make it through the majority of the work day. If you look back to how farmers would start off their day with a hearty, wholesome breakfast before working on the farm; there’s a reason for this! They required a large meal, full of valuable nutrients, minerals, and vitamins to help them work long hours and stay healthy.
Protein Helps to Produce Antibodies to Fight Off Infection
As mentioned in the WebMd quote, proteins help our bodies work to fight off infections and illnesses. If you’re protein-deficient, you may end up much more vulnerable to acquiring certain infections and illnesses.
Helps to Create New Cells
Also mentioned in the WebMd article is the fact when you consume an adequate amount of protein, your body is able to generate new cells and repair damage from our daily activities and stressors.
Pairing Protein Intake with a Whole Food Diet
Protein alone is not enough to realize the full potential of a healthy diet. You must pair adequate protein intake with a healthy, whole food diet as well. This means eating the right amount of fruits, vegetables, healthy grains, etc… to ensure you’re receiving the right amount of each valuable nutrient, vitamin, and mineral.
Learn More About Adequate Protein Intake By Contacting Us
If you’re curious about how you can best go about consuming the right foods if you’re preparing for a surgery, or recovering from a surgery; you’ll want to contact us using the form below. We’ll be sure to respond to your message as soon as possible. We look forward to hearing from you soon and we’re eager to help guide you on the path to health and wellness once again!
DISCLAIMER: No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.