How Much Protein is in your Diet?

Protein is one of the body's three primary nutrients. On a micro level, protein is a primary building block to keep cells and tissues strong. These little building blocks are called amino acids. Amino acids are vital for the body's continual basic functioning and regulation processes. The body produces some of its own amino acids and must obtain the remainder of the food.

Up to a third of our diet should be protein which is macronutrient found in plant foods, meat and dairy. Proteins are made up of a variety of smaller amino acids, defined depending on the source from which they are found.

Protein is essential for the body's energy uses. It helps strengthen muscle and certain other bodily tissue and ensure that DNA and genes are expressing themselves properly throughout the body. It is closest to what we call direct "full" for our bodies.

Recommended Daily Intake: up to 70 grams per day

These are common symptoms as a result of having too little protein in the diet:

• Feeling jittery
  • Feeling weak
  • Inability to concentrate
  • Weight loss
  • Fatigue
  • Sugar cravings
  • Pallid complexion
  • Anemia
  • Changes in hair color or texture

With today's high-protein, low-carb fad diets, it's also possible to have too much protein in the diet. Symptoms include:

• Lethargy
  • Constipation
  • Dehydration
  • Weight gain
  • Feeling heavy and bloated 
  • Sugar cravings
  • Tight or stiff joints
  • Bad breath
  • Strong body odor
  • Acid imbalance
  • Decline in kidney function due to stress of processing excess proteins

Delicious, lean protein sources include wild Alaskan salmon, grass-fed beef, lentils, beans, hummus, nuts and seeds. Summer is a perfect time to grille out your favorite protein sources!

If you're still lacking protein or don't eat meat, a great supplement is Purium's amino acids. You take them throughout the day with meals to get your body functioning to its optimal potential. Details below and contact me for more info! 

*Information from the International Association for Wellness Professionals.