Just like fat and carbohydrates, protein is a commonly misunderstood nutrient. And protein is critical for proper recovery and optimal functioning.
The main problem here, however, is that unless you have a PhD in nutrition it can be very hard to figure out what the truth is.
So here is how to optimize your protein intake:
1. Eat carbohydrates: Ironically, eating more protein will not protect your muscle protein stores. On the other hand, eating carbohydrates will allow your body to use more of your dietary protein for recovery and muscle repair.
2. Hydrate often in small amounts: By drinking small amounts of water consistently during the day, you will provide the optimal environment for protein digestion. You see, protein requires the most water for optimal digestion.
3. Eat complete proteins as often as possible: Complete proteins have all the amino acids in them. And proteins with all the amino acids are best absorbed by your body. Now if you are a vegetarian try to incorporate soy and if possible, egg whites into your diet.
4. Eat vegetables: Vegetables slow down digestion rates mechanically. And if you are digesting your protein at a slow rate, your active tissues will absorb more of it. In other words, a higher percentage of what you eat will go to active tissues.
5. Eat many small meals per day: This is by far the best way to optimize protein intake in your body. You see, after a couple hours, your body begins to break down muscle protein for energy. This in turn damages your metabolism.
6. Stick to foods, not supplements: Supplements are just that, supplements. They should never act as substitutes for real food. You see, your body does a much better job at absorbing whole food in comparison to supplemental protein.
Optimizing your protein intake is a great way to accelerate recovery and increase your health. The key here is to take action now, not later!
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