Prevailing wisdom suggests that protein is something only bodybuilders and professional athletes need.
When we hear the term protein, we instantly correlate it with muscle growth and athletic performance. But, the truth is, the nutrient plays a considerable role in our overall health, and its effects span far beyond the well-known fitness benefits.
Today, we’ll go over what you need to know about this valuable nutrient.
What is Protein?
Protein is an organic molecule that consists of amino acids, which scientists refer to as ‘the building blocks of life.’ Amino acids come in three categories, based on the order of importance:
- Essential
- Conditionally-essential
- Nonessential
Of all amino acids, we have nine that the body cannot produce, so we need to get them through foods. These are the essential ones.
Then, we have the conditionally-essential amino acids, which the body can typically produce, but may not be able to do under some circumstances.
And finally, we have the non-essential amino acids. These are the remaining ones that the body is fully capable of producing on its own, and we don’t necessarily need to get them through food.
The Vital Importance of Protein for our Fitness and Health
Getting enough protein is incredibly beneficial for our health and fitness. For one, protein is vital for muscle recovery and growth. Once we finish a workout, a flood of amino acids enters our muscles and begins the process of repair. And, thanks to the disruption of our workouts, the body sends in more amino acids and other nutrients that allow our muscles to grow larger and stronger.
Protein is also essential for numerous health processes. For one, amino acids play a role in the creation of:
- Hormones
- Enzymes
- Antibodies
- Neurotransmitters
Protein is also vital for bone health, development, and overall health. You see, amino acids play an essential role in the creation of new cells that replace the old and dead ones.
What’s more, specific proteins carry substances throughout the body. For example, hemoglobin is a protein that carries oxygen to our organs and tissues.
So, without an adequate intake of protein, the body can’t function as it should, and that hinders both our fitness and health. In other words, following a high-protein diet is of utmost importance for our health, and it ensures that we make the best possible fitness progress.
If you’ve been training hard but can’t seem to amount to much, it’s a good idea to review your daily protein intake and try to bump it to at least the bare minimum. And speaking of:
How Much Protein You Should Consume
According to some research, we should get at least 0.8 grams of protein per kilo of body weight. But that amount only helps prevent protein deficiency.
To get an adequate amount of protein for good health and optimal fitness results, we should get somewhere between 1.6 and 2.2 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight. So, if you weigh 70 kilos, you should aim to consume 112 to 154 grams of protein per day.
The only issue is, following a high-protein diet can be a bit tedious, inconvenient, and expensive. Plus, there aren’t many high-protein snacks to take with you on the go, which makes it even more challenging to get enough protein.
Because of that, we’ve created our Schmeks Beef Jerky to be delicious, as well as nutritious. Available in Original and Chilli flavors, every packet provides you with 12 grams of high-quality protein, making it an excellent snack for people who track their macros and calories. What’s more, our beef jerky also offers an unbeatable taste with a premium texture that is loved by our customers Australia wide; it’s low in fat, sodium, and has no added sugar.
So, if you’re looking for a truly great quality high-protein snack to take with you to work, throw in your gym bag, on your next road trip, or in the kid’s lunchboxes, be sure to stock the pantry with Australia’s No.1 Beef Jerky, Schmeks!
