The Importance of Protein
Protein has been called the building block of muscle for many years. Even those of us who are not interested in gaining muscle mass are aware of how important protein is for overall health. If you are looking to increase muscle mass you have to understand the importance of protein and the best way to provide it in order to see results.
Protein is an essential macronutrient for the human body and, unlike many other micronutrients, our bodies cannot produce it. This means that you have to provide all of the necessary protein for your body through your diet.
Macronutrients like protein provide a base for the repair of muscles and the growth of new muscle tissue. They also help your body to create enzymes and hormones, the chemicals that run your body. Protein also aids in the strengthening of bones, skin and cartilage; making it one of the most important substances that you can consume.
When you think of protein, you probably imagine a big juicy steak. It is true that red meat like beef can provide a large amount of protein in a relatively small serving. Eight ounces of beef will supply all of the macronutrients necessary for an average body to function for an entire day.
Unfortunately, steak also gives your body plenty of fat and cholesterol that is not necessary. The factor to remember when considering a high-protein diet for building muscles is that where you get your protein from is as important as how much you consume.
Since your body cannot store protein, you need a specific amount each day to function well. On average, a person building muscle mass needs about a gram of protein for each pound of body weight. Keep this in mind when formulating your diet.
Protein comes from many sources including cottage cheese, beans or legumes, fish and even vegetables like spinach.
Whey protein and protein shakes are another source often used by bodybuilders. Choosing a variety of protein sources for your diet is the optimal way to gain muscle without damaging your organs.
Too much protein can cause a state of ketosis within your body. During ketosis, the body burns fat rather than sugar for energy, which sounds like the perfect situation.
Unfortunately, during a state of ketosis the kidneys are working overtime and are often damaged.
Finding a balance in your diet will keep your bodybuilding on track without causing any damage. This means that protein from fish, red meat, vegetables and nuts should be incorporated into your nutritional plan evenly.
Protein is the most essential macronutrient for strengthening your muscles and bones. To increase your muscle mass, combine a diet rich in protein from many sources with your bodybuilding exercises like weight lifting. The protein that you consume will repair torn muscles and help to give you the increased muscle mass you’re looking for.
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