'An apple a day keeps the doctor away'--let us change that with a bar of protein a day keeps your body fit and fine. No matter how hard you try to ignore proteins in your diet, the fact is, your body needs a good amount of protein to repair all the tissues that provide strength and structure. We spoke to
Karishma Chawla, Nutritionist, Eat Rite
24x7, and she gave us a detailed outlook of what proteins are and why you must eat more of it, especially if you are working out.
Let's start with understanding what proteins are: Protein is the key building block for the body's Lean Body Mass (LBM), i.e. all metabolically active tissues (all organs and systems except adipose tissue) that combine to deliver performance.
High in protein foods such as eggs, chicken, and milk, also help in maintaining and increasing the LBM-- which is a prerequisite for a fitness enthusiast to improve his/her fitness components especially muscle strength, muscle endurance, flexibility and an ideal body composition. Protein is also required to form the body's defense and regulatory systems like muscles, bones, connective tissues, skin, hair, immune system, hormones and enzymes.
What does our protein requirement depend on?
The total protein requirement depends on two factors--the quantity of Lean Body Mass, LBM (kg) and the intensity of physical training.
What is a protein supplement?
A supplement means anything (nutrient) that aids a nutritional plan. It can be a protein supplement or vitamins, which are subjective to individual needs. The effects of consuming fast-absorb-able protein or branched-chain amino acids within 30 minutes of your training has scientifically proven benefits.
But there are many myths attached to protein supplementation, here's debunking a few.
Can protein cause kidney stones?
No, excreting protein is the kidney's natural work. Protein intake can't damage a healthy kidney. Only with a per-existing kidney problem, quantity of protein supplement used is limited.
Can protein cause liver damage?
No, metabolizing protein is a normal unction performed by the liver. Only in cases of severe liver problems like jaundice, protein intake is restricted.
Can consumption of protein lead to hair fall?
Hair is made of protein, thus adding more protein would only reduce hair fall and prevent hair deficiencies.
Can protein consumption lead to acne?
Skin is made of protein and acne usually happens because of hormonal imbalance.
Are steroids and supplements the same?
Supplements are natural nutrients (not a drug) like protein, carbs, amino acids and vitamins, whereas steroids are drugs that increase testosterone levels beyond normal levels and are harmful for the body.
Source : http://indiatoday.intoday.in
