People constantly disagree on the health benefits of fat and carbs, but they rarely disagree on the benefits of protein. Protein is essential, and many people eat just enough protein to make sure they're not deficient. However, some people thrive with a high-protein diet, and studies suggest that high-protein diets are beneficial for weight loss and metabolic health.
Let's talk about three things protein does for the body.
Three Things Protein Does for your Body
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Repairs muscles and builds strength.The most obvious thing protein does is that it helps your body repair your muscles after a long workout. If you're trying to gain muscle, you have to make sure you're getting enough protein, and eating enough protein can also prevent muscle loss when you are losing weight.
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Boosts metabolism and fat burning. When you eat, your metabolism is raised for a short period, and this is because your body uses calories to digest your food. High protein intake has been shown to significantly boost metabolism because protein has a much higher thermic effect than fat or carbs.
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Lowers blood pressure.Lastly, high protein intake has been shown to lower blood pressure. In a recent review with controlled experiments, increased protein, on average, lowered systolic blood pressure by 1.6 mm Hg and diastolic blood pressure by 1.15 mm Hg. Another study also found that high protein diets can also reduce bad cholesterol and triglycerides.
Protein is a necessary nutrient, and some people truly excel with a high-protein diet. Protein has many benefits for the body, including helping to repair muscles and build strength, boosting metabolism and burning fat, and also lowering blood pressure. If you're looking for a way to get an extra boost of protein in your day, then consider investing in quality, high-protein snacks, such as Jawbox Jerky.
