Protein

How much protein do we really need? High protein diets, like The Paleo diet, are popular because people are losing weight and feeling better on these regimens.

Like carbohydrates and fat, protein is a “macronutrient.” We need relatively large amounts of it to stay healthy. Unlike carbohydrates and fat, the body does not store protein, so it has no reservoir to draw from when you’re running low.

The body needs protein to build muscle mass. Your brain relies on protein. It is necessary for the proper function of the digestive tract and for our endocrine system, which is responsible for the production of hormones that regulate the immune, reproductive, and central nervous systems.

The best sources of protein are those that contain the essential amino acids we need to sustain growth, repair our muscles, bones, organs, cells, and gut.

The healthiest sources are meat from livestock and poultry that eat pesticide-free grass and bugs and roam chemical-free pastures. And wild caught fish.

Enjoying a surge in popularity is Bone Broth. Bone broth is easy to make and buy in liquid and powders, it can help heal the gut and boost the immune system.

Then there’s whey protein. A high-quality whey protein will contain 100 percent whey protein isolate derived from chemical-free, grass-fed milk. Whey contains the full spectrum of amino acids.

For vegetarians and vegans, nuts and seeds are a great source of protein. Two superfood choices are chia and hemp seeds. The shelled varieties of Hemp seeds contain 11 grams of complete protein per 30-gram serving.

We need about .8 grams for every kilo, that’s 2.2 pounds, of bodyweight. Thank heavens for calculate.net, where you will find out how much you need in a day. If you are moderately active, pregnant or a real steam engine, your needs will vary.