It composes the outer layers of your nails, hair and skin. The majority of the body’s hormones, muscles and organs are greatly composed of protein. It plays an intricate role in building, maintaining and growing tissues in the body. Protein also plays a major role in the circulatory, metabolic and digestive systems in the body. Proteins play a large part in the creation of antibodies that fight of illness and infections in the body.
The best sources of protein are foods such as meat, fish and shellfish, poultry and dairy products. One of the best sources of protein are eggs. Eggs are high in essential amino acids. Other common sources of protein include milk, yogurt, bananas, apricots, grapes, cherries, avocados, beans, nuts, figs and grains.
Often times, physicians will prescribe diets high in proteins to their patients. Abrupt weight loss due to the loss of fluids in the body is a common side effect of being on a high protein diet.
As with an abrupt dietary changes, make sure you check with your doctor before beginning this type of regiment. This diet can be dangerous if done improperly. A high protein rich foods diet is a great health risk for those who are currently suffering from kidney and liver diseases. Several studies have shown that high-protein diets can sometimes do more harm than good.
Dietitians recommend a total of 2 to 3 servings of dairy products and 2 to 3 servings of poultry, meat, and fish each day. Your daily protein requirements can be reached by consuming a variety of protein foods each day. Experts recommend also that about 10 to 15% of one’s daily caloric intake come from protein sources. Aside from protein, most animal produce are high in calories and cholesterol. As always, it is recommended to consume such foods in moderation.