Why protein?

Protein is essential for almost every cellular function in the body. Most people, when they think of protein, think of building muscle, but protein is so much more than that. It is necessary for the structure, metabolic function and regulation of all tissues and organs, including muscle.

Every cell in the body is full of enzymes, which are proteins that control metabolism. Protein also plays an important role for neurotransmitters, which are responsible for mood and even for sleep. Your bones, tendons, ligaments, liver, your brain, your skin and your nails are all made of protein. To really understand proteins, we must first realize that they are made up of amino acids, which are the building blocks of our diet.

When protein intake is correct, this ensures the necessary intake of amino acids. There are 20 amino acids; some sources of protein contain more and/or have a better balance of individual amino acids than others.