The Need for Protein

With weight loss and keeping fit being a consistent and growing trend protein shakes, bars and supplements have been part of every go-getter's daily routine. Most people take protein shakes, bars and supplements for breakfast or after a strenuous workout. Aside from providing them with the right amount of daily protein intake, these also spare them from the hassle of planning and preparing protein-rich meals. A protein shake only takes a minute or two to prepare because all it needs is some pouring and stirring into a drink. Knowing that every scoop contains about 17.5 grams of protein without the fat and carbohydrates, makes it quite tempting for the weight-conscious.

According to Rachel L. Batterham, MD, and her colleagues at the University College London, protein consumption can lead to an increase in the production of PYY hormones, which reduces hunger. Other studies even say that the PYY hormone could solve the problem of obesity. But then, a high-protein diet should not be easily shrugged off as one of those ways to lose a few pounds because protein does so much more than triggering hormones for weight loss.

The Need for Protein

Protein, which is the building block of cells and fluids, is essential to the body because it manufactures, maintains, and replaces the tissues. Every muscle, hormone, and organ found in the body is made of protein and it helps in manufacturing hemoglobin and antibodies. The body makes use of protein to function properly and nine of the essential amino acids humans require can only be found in food.

Meat, fish, dairy products, eggs, soy products, and nuts are all high in protein. Consuming beef, pork, lamb, poultry, shellfish, cheese, oats, tofu, yogurt, egg substitutes, or legumes can satisfy the body's daily protein needs. These may vary in the kind of protein they contain. Some may already have complete proteins, while others may only have incomplete proteins. However, consuming the right combination of these sources of protein can result in a healthy complete-protein diet. For example, the combinations of peanut butter and jelly, rice and beans, or corn and legumes result incomplete proteins.

Getting Enough Protein

Recommended protein intake is dependent on age, activity level, body size and medical conditions. The Food Pyramid Guide shows that most adults should consume around two to three servings everyday. Three to four ounces of cooked fish, poultry, and lean meat; a half cup of cooked legumes, lentils, or dry beans; an egg; or two tablespoons of peanut butter is already one serving of protein. For those who are on a low-fat diet, they may get their daily protein requirements from low-fat protein sources such as shellfish, fish, egg substitutes, non-fat milk products and beans.