Protein is one of the building blocks of muscles, joints, tissue, and hormones. We never stop to think that our bodies may not be getting enough to repair, and rebuild. While many of us watch our carbs, our calorie intake, and our water; many forget to track their protein. If protein is depleted it can affect us in ways we never thought of such as blood sugar spikes, craving sugar, slow recovery rates from workout routines, joint break down, and even premature aging! Here are 5 signs you need more protein.
5 Signs You Need More Protein
1.) Sugar and Carb Cravings – Protein is a blood sugar leveling tool for your body! If you’re carving starchy foods and sugary foods, you may not be getting enough protein to fight blood sugar spikes. Next time you want to reach for a high carb snack, eat some protein instead!
2.) Mood Fluctuations – Energy crashes and slumps during the day aren’t just from caffeine. They can also be a signal that your blood sugar has gone through several spikes and is now plummeting. With the crash comes tiredness, moodiness, and low energy levels. Keep your energy levels consistent and the monsters at bay by eating protein through out your day.
3.) Your an Athlete or Gym Goer – If you’ve been tearing it up at the gym, then you’ve also been tearing up your body. This isn’t a bad thing if you refuel with protein after your workouts. If you’re not getting enough protein to repair, you’ll be extra tired, extra sore, and leave yourself vulnerable to more injuries.
4.) You’re Aging – High protein diets help fight both physical and mental deterioration. In 2014, a study of the elderly in Japan found that men who consumed more meat and fish were 39 percent less likely to develop mental and physical declines.
5.) You’re Pregnant or Breastfeeding – Not many moms stop to think about how much protein their consuming while taking care of a little one and bring them into the world. During pregnancy, protein is a crucial aspect to helping the child grow. This is especially important during the second and third trimesters. While breastfeeding, protein is an important part of breast milk. It aids in the growth of the child during a very important phase of their lives. Women who are breastfeeding need 50 percent more protein then women who are not.
As a general rule of thumb, I tell all of my clients to add protein to each meal and snack of the day. This helps you to eat more while keeping your blood sugar levels consistent all day.
Adria Ali
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