Protein is a large part of the American diet. It is found in a variety of foods, including meats, fish, poultry, eggs, nuts and milk. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, the majority of adults in the United States consume more protein than they need on a daily basis. Therefore, daily protein shakes are not a necessity for most Americans. However, protein shakes offer added benefits to certain populations.
Effects of Protein
Protein creates body tissue and is needed for development. Protein is especially important in pregnancy, childhood and adolescence. Insufficient protein hinders growth, causes muscle loss and weakens the immune system. High protein diets, on the other hand, may strain the kidneys, increase cholesterol and the risk of heart disease.
Weight Loss
Protein shakes may supplement your diet and aid in losing weight. Many protein shakes contain less than 100 calories per serving. According to MayoClinic.com nutritionist, Katherine Zeratsky, the average adult needs 46 to 56 g of protein on a daily basis. Protein shakes typically contain 12 g of protein, as well as fiber, carbohydrates, vitamins and minerals.
Body Building
Protein builds and strengthen muscles. Since muscle fibers tear as a result of weight-lifting, a sufficient supply of protein is needed to repair these fibers. Protein helps body builders shed body fat by increasing metabolism. Since protein is harder to break down than carbohydrates or fat, the extra effort the body puts out to break down protein burns additional calories.
Meal Replacement
Working long hours depletes energy and may cause you to miss meals. On these occasions, protein shakes work as meal replacements. Instead of skipping breakfast, lunch or dinner, satisfy your hunger with a protein shake. Meal-replacement shakes contain more protein and calories than protein shakes. According to the Disabled World website, meal replacement shakes have 15 to 30 g of protein and 100 to 200 calories.
Member Comments