World Protein Day falls on February 27th and here at Amrita Health Foods, we’re thrilled to celebrate the incredible power of this vital nutrient, not least because everybody always seems to be talking about it or wondering where it can be found. In a world awash with misinformation, it’s vital to distinguish fact from fiction, especially when it comes to something as crucial for health, fitness, and overall well-being as protein is. So let’s start learning.
Why We Need Protein
The building block of all living things
Protein is more than just a buzzword from the fitness community; it's a fundamental macronutrient essential for life itself. Just as we’ve previously described your gut microbiome as a thriving city , consider protein as your body’s construction crew, continuously building, repairing, and maintaining you. From the muscles that move us to the skin that protects us, protein is the primary structural component. It’s vital for growth, development, and the recovery processes that follow injuries or intense workouts.
But beyond its structural role, protein is also the backbone of enzymes, the catalysts that drive countless biochemical reactions within our bodies. It also forms the hormones that regulate our moods and metabolic processes. And this is still not everything. Our immune system, the body's defense mechanism, relies heavily on protein, as antibodies, the cells that fight off infections and serious diseases, are protein-based. A robust and effective immune system depends on an adequate supply of this essential nutrient.
Protein also plays something of a logistical role. Within our bodies, proteins serve as transportation and storage units, carrying other nutrients throughout the body, to where they are needed, and storing essential substances.
Now that is a busy and incredibly valuable macronutrient!
Protein's Multifaceted Roles
Beyond Muscle Mass
While muscle building is a widely recognized and often prioritized benefit of protein, its functions extend far beyond the realm of physical fitness. Let’s delve into the specific roles protein plays in our bodies.
First, let’s look at muscle recovery and growth. Protein is essential for repairing and rebuilding muscle tissue damaged during exercise. This is particularly crucial for athletes and anyone engaging in regular demanding physical activity. Consuming protein after a workout stimulates muscle protein synthesis, the process by which our bodies build new muscle fibers. As such, many people look to drink a protein shake or grab a high-protein snack within 30 minutes of completing an activity. This ‘anabolic window’ is considered best for optimal muscle support. Traditionally, these drinks and snacks have been animal-based but increasingly, research is proving that plant-based protein is just as effective at building muscle while reducing recovery times.
Healthy Body, Healthy Mind
Protein also provides sustained energy, while promoting feelings of fullness. Unlike carbohydrates, which can lead to rapid spikes and crashes in blood sugar, protein offers a slow and steady release of lasting energy. This is invaluable for maintaining consistent performance and concentration throughout the day and provides a sensation of satiety, keeping us feeling fuller for longer, which can help control unhealthy food cravings. You may have heard that protein is a great tool for maintaining a healthy weight and this is how, by interrupting those intrusive thoughts that make you reach for a sugar-filled treat, simply because you are no longer feeling full and content.
Finally, let us consider the benefits of clean nutrition. Plant-based protein sources (including our bars!) are often packed with additional nutrients, including natural fiber, vitamins and minerals. Research is increasingly highlighting the potential health implications associated with high animal protein consumption, in the forms of meat and dairy. These include tangibly increased risks of certain chronic diseases. In direct contrast, vegan protein sources are generally lower in saturated fat and cholesterol, promoting heart health, blood sugar management and more. Choosing plant-based protein is also a sustainable choice, reducing our environmental footprint and contributing to a healthier planet.
Plant-Based vs Animal-Based Protein Sources
So this is the big question, especially asked of vegans: where do you get protein? The answer is, everywhere! Vegan protein sources are especially abundant, can be very cost-effective and offer extra health benefits that protect against bodily inflammation and chronic diseases. Animal-based alternatives are less varied, frequently cost more and are being linked to a growing number of life-altering and threatening conditions.
Plant-Based Protein Sources:
Legumes: Lentils, chickpeas, black beans, kidney beans, pinto beans, cannellini beans, lima beans, mung beans, and more, offering a range of textures and flavors. Legumes can even be used in sweet treats such as healthy brownies and other baking.
Soy Products: Tofu (firm, silken, extra-firm), tempeh, edamame, soy milk, and soy-based yogurt, providing complete protein and versatility in cooking.
Grains: Quinoa (a complete protein), brown rice, oats, whole wheat, barley, farro, and amaranth, contributing fiber and complex carbohydrates alongside protein, for sustained energy and dietary variety.
Nuts and Seeds: Almonds, walnuts, cashews, peanuts, chia seeds, flaxseeds, sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, hemp seeds, and sesame seeds, rich in healthy fats and micronutrients. Nut allergy sufferers, please always check that your snack providers have a fully nut-free facility–like ours–to avoid cross-contamination.
Vegetables: Spinach, broccoli, kale, peas, asparagus, and Brussels sprouts, offering smaller protein contributions alongside vital vitamins and minerals.
Nutritional Yeast: A complete protein source with a cheesy flavor, this is often fortified with B vitamins, particularly B12, making it an amazing addition to your daily diet. Try making high-protein mac and no cheese by combining sugar-free plain soy yogurt with miso paste, nutritional yeast and chickpea macaroni. Trust us, you’ll never look back and kids love it too!
Spirulina and Chlorella: Algae-based proteins, packed with nutrients and antioxidants.
Seitan: A wheat gluten-based protein, providing a meaty texture and high protein content. The protein content of seitan can be more than 75%, depending on the recipe you use, making it hard to beat!
Plant-Based Protein Powders: Pea protein, brown rice protein, soy protein, hemp protein, and blends of all the above offer convenient and concentrated protein hits. Try adding cinnamon to your protein shakes to improve the taste and help fight bodily inflammation too.
Plant-Based Protein Bars : On-the-go protein with added nutrients. Be choosy and look for those with no added sugars and no nasty filler ingredients.
Plant-Based Meats: From burgers to sausages, made from many different plant proteins. Be sure to check the levels of saturated fat though, as many brands have chosen to prioritize flavour over content. The healthiest option is to make your own meat substitutes.
While some plant-based proteins are complete, others may lack one or more essential amino acids. This is easily addressed by combining different plant protein sources throughout the day. For example, pairing rice with beans, sunflower butter with whole-grain bread, or lentils with quinoa ensures that we obtain all the essential amino acids our bodies need.
Animal-Based Protein Sources:
Meat: Beef, chicken, pork, and fish, providing complete protein but at a price. Most are higher in saturated fat and contain cholesterol, the latter of which no plant-based products have. These combined are shown to increase the risk of certain cancers, diabetes and cardiovascular disease. There are also ethical production issues to consider.
Dairy products: (milk, cheese, yogurt), offering calcium and some protein. Again, ethical concerns are rife within the dairy sector right now, especially in connection to animal welfare.
Eggs: a complete protein source but high in fat and cholesterol.
Happy World Protein Day
Protein is the cornerstone of our vitality and a building block that powers our bodies and minds. World Protein Day serves as a vital reminder of this macronutrient's indispensable role, urging us to recognize its multiple benefits. It's also an opportunity to become more discerning about our protein sources, prioritizing those that not only nourish us but also align with ethical and sustainable practices.
By choosing plant-based options, we can support our bodies with clean, nutrient-rich protein, minimize our environmental footprint, and contribute to a healthier planet. Let's embrace a protein-conscious approach, making informed choices that empower us to thrive while also helping the world to survive.
