Basic Protein Facts

Protein, is one of the three major food groups, which also includes fats and carbohydrates.

Proteins are made up of building blocks called amino acids. Some of these amino acids are produced by the body, while others, we need to get from our diet.  We provide our bodies with protein from animal and plant sources.

Protein is essential for every cell in the body and can be found in our cartilage, tendons, ligaments, organs, hair, skin, nervous system and in different hormone and immune metabolites.

Some symptoms that you are not  getting enough protein in your diet:

  • food cravings
  • brain fog
  • difficultly losing weight
  • muscle and joint pain
  • unexpected swelling of the feet and ankles (fluid retention)
  • low immunity and slow recovery from injuries
  • thinning hair, nail ridges and/or patchy skin

 

To maintain our protein levels, we need to ensure we are consuming enough calories, in general. At minimum, the average person needs about 0.36 grams of protein per pound of body weight.  Elderly, athletes, stressed individuals and those recovering from illness or injury, often require more protein.

Some good sources of protein are milk and yoghurt, red meat, pork, chicken, turkey, eggs, fish and seafood, whole grains, lentils, nuts and seeds.  One can also consume protein powders made from whey, rice, peas, hemp or soy depending on preference and sensitivity.

Please visit our website at Kelowna Naturopathic Clinic for more information about our clinic.