What is Protein’s Function Our Bodies?
Protein is important in the body. Every single cell of your body contains protein so, I’d say it is a very, very important macronutrient. Protein is a team player and exists just about everywhere in the body. To start off, it is a component of each and every cell, it acts as the building blocks for bones, cartilage, muscles and contributes to hormones and other chemicals made in the body.
In regards to exercise, protein is the superstar who builds and repairs muscle tissue. By no means is eating protein going to transform you into a bulky bodybuilder. It will, however, keep muscle tissue healthy as you rush to work, do a million stairs on laundry day, chase the kids around or go for an evening walk.
Are You Getting Enough Protein?
For the average woman, recommendations for protein intake is 0.8 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight (0.36 grams per pound). This recommendation is targeted towards everyday women with light to moderate activity. I’ll use myself as an example:
I am a 140-pound woman with a desk job who enjoys going for a walk at lunch and usually attends one yoga class per week. So, my protein requirement is (0.36 x 140) = 50.4 g
The Myths
Misconceptions about moderate to high protein intake are all over the place. I’m here to tell you there is no way, or should I say no whey, these are science-backed claims. There is no significant evidence to say protein puts your liver at risk. The good news is that the scientific evidence does say moderate protein intake lowers the risk of osteoporosis and overall, promotes better bone health.
Altering Your Macros to Reach Your Goals
When we talk about shifting your macronutrient intake remember, it is just as much about the number as to how your body is feeling. Pay attention to any changes that occur as you transition to your new macro counts. The standard suggested range for protein intake is 10 – 35% of all your calories. While trying to change your body composition, either gaining muscle or losing weight, increase that intake to about 25 – 35%. If you are unsure how to increase your protein intake check out our previous blog post, A Guide for Women: Are You Getting Enough Protein, for some delicious ideas.
How Can AURA Help?
AURA’s line of all-natural supplements is focused on the needs of women and their ever-changing lifestyles with on-going fitness and healthy living trends in mind. Don’t be fooled, these aren’t your typical supplements and you won’t find any bodybuilders here. The everyday athlete, on the go professionals and moms, rejoice. Convenient and great tasting but also addressing nutrition consumption concerns so you can get back to your day with one less thing to worry about.
If you haven’t already, read all about the macronutrient family and healthy fats in our previous blog posts. Stay tuned, we talk all about carbs next time!
Shelby Lang-Perry is an AURA Team member with a passion for health and wellness. She is armed with a B.Sc. in Nutrition and Food Science to get you the real story on all your nutrition questions.
