Let’s talk about protein! It’s one of the most important things in your diet. Every single cell in your body is made of protein—how cool is that? Getting enough protein is crucial for keeping your muscle tissue happy and healthy which ultimately keeps your metabolism in check, and is linked to healthier aging. Plus, if you’re hitting the gym and looking to make gains, protein is your best friend. Let’s dive in!
First, why does muscle matter? Well, muscle tissue plays a major role in how your body processes glucose, handles insulin, and burns energy. Basically, muscles are like the little engines that keep your metabolism running smoothly and help lower your risk of metabolic diseases. Whether you’re a gym warrior, an occasional walker, or just living your best life, building and maintaining muscle is key. Trust us, keeping those muscles strong leads to a higher quality of life, and it can keep you active well into your golden years.
Still with us? Good!
Here’s the deal: eating enough protein gives your body the building blocks to help you build and keep muscle mass. It can even help prevent some (but not all) muscle loss when activity levels are reduced. If you’re regularly not getting enough of it, muscle tissue health can be impaired, and that can mess with your metabolism, immune system, and overall health down the road. And for all our athletes out there -> not enough protein can seriously hurt your performance too!
So here’s the takeaway: whether you’re an athlete, a weekend warrior, or just want to stay strong, muscle health matters. Eating the right amount of protein helps your muscles stay in tip-top shape, and that means you’re doing your future self a solid.
*Note to self* We are not saying your other macronutrients and colorful vegetables don’t matter. They do! We just want to emphasize the importance of protein this month.
Ready to boost your protein intake and give your muscles some love? Try these tips:
- Aim for about 1 gram of protein per pound of your target body weight. This helps keep your muscles happy and healthy.
- Try to get 30-50g of protein at each meal, especially at breakfast and dinner.
- Animal-based proteins (think meat, eggs, dairy, fish) are your best bet when it comes to bioavailability—fancy word for getting the most bang for your buck!
- If you’re eating plant-based, remember that things like beans, nuts, and seeds are also good protein sources, but you’ll need bigger portions to meet your goals, and that means extra carbs and fats.
- And if you’re really trying to build muscle, a whey protein shake right after your workout can give you that extra boost!
So, are you ready to prioritize your protein? Your muscles—and your future self—will thank you!
March is National Nutrition Month!
This month, we want to express our gratitude to the hard-working, compassionate, and knowledgeable dietitians on our team. It’s also a time to raise awareness about the importance of nutrition and overall health. What we eat plays a significant role in how we feel, and this month is the perfect opportunity to share valuable information that helps keep both our minds and bodies performing at their best.