Protein and Exercise: The Perfect Combo for a Strong, Lean Body
What does your diet look like? Do you eat enough protein? Whether you're a pro athlete or a weekend warrior, protein should come first on your list. This nutrient promotes muscle growth, accelerates recovery, and boosts your metabolism. When used as part of a balanced diet, it can help you get leaner. It's the best choice for those who want to build lean mass and torch stubborn fat.
Let's see how protein works and why it's so good for you!
Get Leaner, Stronger, and Fitter
Protein is the foundation of every cell and tissue in your body. This nutrient consists of amino acids, which are the building blocks of muscle. It plays a key role in metabolism, muscle growth, immune function, and hormone production. When combined with clean eating and exercise, it improves athletic performance and fuels your gains.
Under certain situations, your body can use protein for energy. This nutrient is particularly important for dieters as it helps preserve muscle during weight loss. Maintaining a high protein intake will reduce catabolism and keep your metabolism up. When consumed after exercise, it speeds up recovery and increases muscle protein synthesis rates. For this reason, athletes and gym goers sip on protein shakes post workout.
The Surprising Benefits of a High-Protein Diet
High-protein diets have been around for decades. It's not uncommon to see athletes eating tons of meat, fish, and eggs to build muscle and strength. This nutrient helps your body repair damaged tissues and improves recovery time. It also keeps your bones strong, regulates blood sugar levels, and promotes satiety.
Have you noticed how full you feel after eating steak or poultry? That's because high-protein foods suppress hunger and cravings. Additionally, they take longer to digest compared to fats and carbs. Your body uses about 30 percent more energy to metabolize protein than it does when processing high-carb or high-fat foods. This helps increase your metabolism and accelerates fat loss.
Once you go on a high-protein diet, you'll recover faster from training. Your overall strength will increase too. This will allow you work out harder for a longer period of time. In the long run, it can make you a better athlete.
How much protein you need depends on your activity level, weight, and fitness goals. If you're a vegan, you can opt for plant-based proteins, such as green peas, quinoa, chia seeds, and soy.
Want to make sure you're getting enough protein?
Aim for at least one gram of protein per pound of body weight.
Interested in learning more about how you should eating to reach your goals?
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