Any well-balanced diet provides you with the fuel that your body needs to function at an optimal level. The nutrients that provide caloric value fall into three main categories: fat, carbohydrates, and protein. Providing your body with the right composition of these macronutrients plays a pivotal role in your overall well-being. Here we dive into these macros and how protein has a special place in your balanced diet.
A Balanced Diet: How Protein Fits Into the Puzzle
Carbohydrates
Carbs are made up of sugar molecules that are broken down into fuel. While they have been demonized by the health conscious society, carbohydrates play an important role in creating energy for the body. Without enough carbs, the body will begin to break down muscle to generate fuel.
Fats
Fats are the most commonly misunderstood macronutrient in our diets. Many consider low-fat or no-fat foods to be “healthy,” but consuming enough fats helps your body function. It is recommended that fat make up 20 to 35 percent of your daily caloric intake. Fat actually coats the nerves in your body to make movements happen more efficiently.
Proteins
Protein is the white knight of healthy eating – and rightfully so! They are used to build, repair, and maintain tissue in the body. Proteins are made up of smaller molecules called amino acids. Nine of the twenty-two types of amino acids can only be obtained through food, which is why a high protein diet is so important.
Typically, meats, dairy, eggs, and legumes are good sources of protein. These types of foods are easily varied to create a diet that is high in protein. However, many fail to reach the recommended amount of protein to sustain a balanced diet. In these cases, protein supplements are a highly beneficial secondary option.
Differences Between Protein Supplements
BioPure Protein
BioPure Protein is a pure whey protein concentrate that has naturally occurring immunoglobulins. Not only does it provide high-quality protein to supplement your diet, but also the immunoglobulins which can help support your overall immune function. This supplement is an unflavored protein that can be mixed with your favorite drink.
Perfect Protein Whey
The Perfect Protein Whey supplement is a combination of whey isolate and hydrolyzed whey that provides 20 grams of protein per serving. This supplement delivers complete protein that includes all 9 of the essential amino acids. It comes in two different flavors – chocolate or vanilla to be mixed with cold water.
Perfect Protein Pea & Rice
This Perfect Protein formula is a plant based option that is perfect for vegans, vegetarians, or those with lactose intolerance. Created with OptiProtein, a proprietary pea and rice protein that is blended with added essential amino acids to create a complete protein source to supplement the diet.
Ultra Protein Bar
The Ultra Protein Bar is the perfect on-the-go option for supplementing protein in your diet. In addition to providing a complete protein source, the Ultra Protein Bar is a great source of fiber. Coming in double chocolate and peanut butter flavors, the Ultra Protein Bar is a delicious supplement.
There are a number of different options available to supplement your protein intake. By adding these protein options to your daily intake, you can sustain a healthy and well-rounded diet.