Protein is one of the most misunderstood nutrients on the planet. While we all know it’s essential for building muscle, skin, organs and hormones, many people are confused about how much protein they should be eating.
Most people eat more protein in a day than their bodies actually need, as much as three to five times what is recommended. Individuals over the age of 18 only require that 10% to 30% of their daily calories come from protein. Excess dietary protein can pose serious health risks such as kidney stress, elevated blood sugar, and the leeching of bone minerals.
The second area of confusion when it comes to protein is what are the best sources. When they hear the word protein, many people instantly think of animal sources like turkey …show more content…
Spirulina
You may be scratching your head right now wondering, “What the heck is spirulina?” While it’s often misclassified as an herb, it’s actually a bacteria, or more specifically, a blue-green algae found in rivers, ponds and pristine fresh water lakes. It is commonly referred to as a superfood because it contains 60% protein by weight and all of the essential amino acids needed by every organ in the body.
Athletes often turn to spirulina to support their body. In one study, spirulina was found to enhance endurance and significantly increased the amount of time it took for participants to become fatigued. Another study performed on college athletes found supplementing with spirulina increased their muscle strength. Also, some plant foods, spirulina being one of them, contain powerful antioxidants that minimize damage after intense workouts.
Admittedly, spirulina is an acquired taste, and some people do not like its vivid green color. Luckily there are spirulina protein powders on the market that come in a variety of flavors so you can take advantage of the health benefits in a delicious way.
Getting the right amount of protein in your diet is essential for optimal health. Just be sure not to overdo it, and look to sources other than animal
Most people eat more protein in a day than their bodies actually need, as much as three to five times what is recommended. Individuals over the age of 18 only require that 10% to 30% of their daily calories come from protein. Excess dietary protein can pose serious health risks such as kidney stress, elevated blood sugar, and the leeching of bone minerals.
The second area of confusion when it comes to protein is what are the best sources. When they hear the word protein, many people instantly think of animal sources like turkey …show more content…
Spirulina
You may be scratching your head right now wondering, “What the heck is spirulina?” While it’s often misclassified as an herb, it’s actually a bacteria, or more specifically, a blue-green algae found in rivers, ponds and pristine fresh water lakes. It is commonly referred to as a superfood because it contains 60% protein by weight and all of the essential amino acids needed by every organ in the body.
Athletes often turn to spirulina to support their body. In one study, spirulina was found to enhance endurance and significantly increased the amount of time it took for participants to become fatigued. Another study performed on college athletes found supplementing with spirulina increased their muscle strength. Also, some plant foods, spirulina being one of them, contain powerful antioxidants that minimize damage after intense workouts.
Admittedly, spirulina is an acquired taste, and some people do not like its vivid green color. Luckily there are spirulina protein powders on the market that come in a variety of flavors so you can take advantage of the health benefits in a delicious way.
Getting the right amount of protein in your diet is essential for optimal health. Just be sure not to overdo it, and look to sources other than animal