We all know we need to eat protein, but how many of us understand the importance of getting the right amount, as well as the right kind? The fact is that not all proteins are created equal. We spoke to two nutrition experts, who revealed everything we need to know...
What is protein?
Protein is one of three macronutrients that supply the body with energy; carbohydrates and fats are the other two. But while protein can supply the body with some energy, it has another, more important role to play.
‘Protein helps to build and repair tissues while also making enzymes that help the body to function properly,’ explains nutritionist Rob Hobson.
‘Proteins are made up of amino acids which can be thought of as ‘building blocks’. There are 20 amino acids, of which nine are essential, meaning they must be obtained from the diet as the body is not able to make them.’
Protein helps muscles recover
Our experts
Rob Hobson (robhobson. co.uk) is a nutritionist, author and food journalist
Dr Stacey Lockyer is senior nutritional scientist at the British Nutrition Foundation
How much do we need?
Most women need a minimum of 45g of protein every day for optimum health, and the average person should be aiming for around 0.8g of protein per kg of body weight. So for someone who weighs 9st, 45g is plenty, while a 12st woman would need around 61g of protein.
‘As an example, an average skinless chicken breast (120g grilled weight) contains around 36g of protein, and an average egg contains about 8.5g of protein,’ explains Dr Stacey Lockyer, senior nutrition scientist from the British Nutrition Foundation (nutrition,org.uk).
Food surveys show that most British men and women eat up to 55% more than this daily, so generally it’s not something to worry about.
Diese Geschichte stammt aus der September 07, 2020-Ausgabe von WOMAN'S OWN.
Starten Sie Ihre 7-tägige kostenlose Testversion von Magzter GOLD, um auf Tausende kuratierte Premium-Storys sowie über 8.000 Zeitschriften und Zeitungen zuzugreifen.
Bereits Abonnent ? Anmelden
Diese Geschichte stammt aus der September 07, 2020-Ausgabe von WOMAN'S OWN.
Starten Sie Ihre 7-tägige kostenlose Testversion von Magzter GOLD, um auf Tausende kuratierte Premium-Storys sowie über 8.000 Zeitschriften und Zeitungen zuzugreifen.
Bereits Abonnent? Anmelden
MIND OF MY OWN
The Woman's Own columnist has her say on the gender gap, cats and timed hugs
Check out CHICAGO
With a spectacular skyline, sandy beaches and great food, the Windy City is calling, says Zoe West
LET'S EMBRACE OUR CHRISTMAS TAT!
Becky Dickinson explains why she'll still be rocking around her tinsel-strewn tree this year
BURIED SECRETS
We look at the shocking cases of celebrities posthumously accused of being sexual predators-and how they got away with it
FESTIVE NO-BAKES
Pop on the Christmas tunes and whip up a batch of these easy sweet treats
PROTECT YOUR SMILE
Are you doing enough to look after your teeth and gums?
'TIS THE SEASON TO SHINE!
At last, Hayley McCrossan, 39, feels fit and healthy
FOR THE LOVE OF TOM
When Deborah Mitchell, 57, lost her son, she vowed to help other families facing the same heartbreak
THE NURSE WHO LEFT MY GRANDAD FOR DEAD belict
Rachael Fealey, 31, had one question for the woman who killed her beloved Grampa - how could you?
Coleen's MONEY WORRIES
What are the reasons behind her financial and marriage fears?