The Surprising Truth: What Everyone Gets Wrong About Protein and Women’s Health
Protein is considered the Holy Grail of nutrition, alongside fruits and vegetables. Many people, however, are unaware that there are different types of protein and that women’s protein needs are different from those of men.
Understanding Protein
Proteins are essential macronutrients responsible for maintaining and building muscle, keeping immune systems healthy, and producing hormones and enzymes in the body. When most people think of protein, they think of animal products like meat, poultry, and dairy. Women, however, may opt for non-animal sources of protein like plant-based sources, including lentils, chickpeas, and tofu.
Amount of Protein Women Need
The amount of protein a woman needs is determined by several factors, including body weight, age, and physical activity level. The recommended daily protein intake for adult women ranges from 46 to 56 grams, which is about 10-35% of their daily calorie intake. For athletes and those who are physically active, they might need more.
Common Protein Myths About Women
Many women believe that consuming excess amounts of protein will lead to muscle building. However, genetic and hormone differences make it difficult for women to gain muscle mass as rapidly as men. Another myth is that plant-based protein is inferior to animal-based protein. Still, consuming a variety of protein sources, including plant-based protein, provides women with the necessary protein they need to maintain muscle and improve their overall health.
Protein Can Help with Weight Loss
Consuming protein can help women lose weight, primarily by reducing their appetite and increasing their metabolism. Protein is beneficial to women who seek to lose weight since they require fewer calories to maintain their weight than men do. Adding protein to a balanced, lower-calorie diet can help women feel fuller for longer and lose weight more successfully.
Conclusion
Protein is an essential macronutrient, particularly for women. Understanding the quantity and types of protein required for women’s bodies can help women remain healthy and maintain a healthy weight. The protein myths and misunderstandings surrounding women and protein intake are debunked through this insight to enable women to make informed choices about their daily dietary intake.
