With so many people adopting vegetarian and vegan lifestyles, one of the most important things to consider is making sure the body get’s enough protein. Since poultry, red meat, and fish are not being consumed, the body’s main source of protein needs to be supplemented and replaced. But why is protein important? Why can’t the body survive without protein?
Let’s explain the health benefits of protein from the inside out:
- Blood — Plasma, the liquid between blood cells that transports them throughout the body, contains protein. In addition, the hemoglobin found in red blood cells is responsible for oxygen transport. So without protein, our bodies wouldn’t get the oxygen they need.
- Bones — Other than calcium, proteins help to make up the body’s skeletal system. Not only that, but the marrow within bones also contains protein.
- Muscles — Amino acids in protein form are second only to water in their role in making up muscle tissue. Without these proteins the body would not be able to maintain, repair, or grow muscle tissue.
- Skin — The epidermis is the body’s largest organ and is made up, primarily, of the protein keratin. Without keratin the body wouldn’t be able to develop, or repair skin, nails, or hair.
Whether you’re a meat eater or a vegetarian, speak with a nutritionist or your doctor to make sure you’re getting enough protein in your diet.
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