|
Navigation
|
 |
Article Navigation:
Want to write?
We're always looking for new writers and people willing to help out with the magazine and site. If you're interested, [Click here for more info]. |
|
Stay Updated!
If you'd like to stay updated and recieve a notice when the next issue of is released, just sign up at our forums by [Clicking here]. We will send out a mass e-mail to all our members when the next issue is released. |
|
Your Comments
Let us know how you feel about this issue. We will read e-mail sent and would appreciate any comments and/or suggestions that you may have. [Click here]. |
|
|
|
 |
The Importance of Protein
by Fyre, Mod @ www.IronLife.com, www.SculptedByIron.com & www.Steroidology.com
Protein is an essential part of our diet and plays many roles in our body. Protein's roles are primarily structural but it is also sacrificed by the body for energy during intensive exercise or when nutrition is inadequate. In these situations, to meet our body's metabolic needs the body breaks down precious muscle tissue, which is definitely a setback for an athlete who has been training hard to make gains.
Our goal therefore, is to maintain proper protein intake in our diet. Protein is needed for the growth, maintenance and repair of cells, including muscle cells and for the production of enzymes, hormones and DNA. In addition to these functions, protein, the same as carbs and fat can also be used by the body for energy. Under conditions of both outright and training induced starvation, the body  will release amino acids from muscle tissue to use as energy. This breakdown of protein occurs during exercise--especially during intensive workouts, and prolonged endurance activities or when the body runs out of carbohydrates from the diet or glycogen from its muscle and liver stores. This is why a proper protein intake is essential every hour of the day. For optimum muscle growth, metabolism and recovery, our bodies need to receive protein throughout the day and in proper proportions. A general rule of thumb is to consume a portion of protein at each of your meals and/or snacks throughout the day, approximately every 2-2 1/2 hours.
Protein is found in animal, plant and supplemental form. Animal protein tends to be of higher quality than plant protein because they contain the proper proportions of the essential amino acids. Most plant proteins sources such as peas and beans are incomplete in their essential amino acid contents. It is necessary therefore to combine different plant proteins to get a balance of amino acids. If you are vegetarian, you need to know how to combine legumes with grains to formulate a complete protein. Some good sources of protein are chicken, turkey, tuna, salmon and other fish, lean cuts of beef, eggs, skim milk, cottage cheese, and of course you may use supplemental sources such as whey protein.
Remember that protein is your building block for muscle. Depending on your goals, it is suggested to take in between 1 and 2 grams of protein per body pound, divided amongst your six meals throughout the day. This will ensure you are taking in an adequate amount of protein to help you achieve your health and fitness goals.
The importance of proper protein intake to maximum performance is obvious. Choosing high quality protein foods and/or supplements is essential. Ingesting the correct amount for your body size and activity level can help maintain a desirable body weight and improve your healing and recovery abilities.
* Article by Fyre, Mod @ www.IronLife.com, www.SculptedByIron.com & www.Steroidology.com
* Back to Issue #6 Frontpage
|
|
|
