Protein – what is it & why is it important, especially in midlife?
This might sound like a really basic question yet I’m frequently asked about it by my clients.
Today, I wanted to uncover and share why this gem is so important to us all. Protein is an essential macronutrient made up of amino acids, which are known as the building blocks of life. It plays a crucial role in so many bodily functions and is essential for the growth and repair of tissues, cells, and organs.
Did you know, many hormones and enzymes are also made of protein and amazingly, they can fold into incredibly complex 3D shapes? This is crucial because it allows hormones and enzymes to be highly specific. A hormone like, insulin, needs to precisely fit receptors on cells to signal them to take up glucose from the blood. The fact that hormones and enzymes are proteins makes them key to control mechanisms, meaning the body can regulate the amounts of specific proteins produced and how quickly they are broken down, which influences the overall levels of hormones and enzymes. Not too ‘sciencey’ I hope!
It’s really important to realise that protein is needed for more than growth and repair. It’s a much under-rated macronutrient and the reason we need to make sure we’re eating enough, especially in midlife, is more complex then we, think as it’s involved in so many pathways in our bodies.
Protein is particularly important in midlife for so many different reasons. As we age, several physiological changes occur that make protein intake even more important:
From the age 30, we begin to lose muscle mass and strength and an adequate protein intake helps to preserve muscle mass and function, promoting mobility, balance, and overall strength;
Protein is essential for maintaining bone density, which naturally declines with age, increasing the risk of osteopenia, the first step towards osteoporosis and fractures;
Our metabolism tends to slow down in midlife, making it easier to gain weight. Protein has a higher thermic effect than carbohydrates and fats meaning your body burns more calories digesting it;
Midlife often brings hormonal shifts, especially for women during perimenopause and menopause and protein can help to stabilise blood sugar levels and mood, which can be affected by these hormonal changes;
And last, but by no means least, protein helps to regulate appetite and increase metabolism, making it easier to maintain a healthy weight, which can be more challenging in midlife.
I hope you now have a better understanding why this powerhouse nutrient is so important for us all, especially in midlife. To find out the best sources to include in your daily intake, keep your eyes peeled for next week’s blog. I can’t wait for you to read it and to help you take one step closer to being the best version of you!
If you’re need advice and support changing your diet and lifestyle, or need help and direction to lose weight and gain muscle, book a discovery call with me. www.myprivatediet.com I’m here to help.
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Ciao for now, Ex.