Why everyone needs it and the best place to get it

If you’ve been around Shape Up Church for any amount of time, you’ve probably realized that we talk a great deal about protein. You may sometimes wonder, “Dr. Jeff, I’m not a bodybuilder or gym rat trying to build bulging biceps. Do I really need that much protein?” The answer is a resounding YES! Whether you want to lose unwanted pounds, maintain a healthy weight, or build muscle mass, getting sufficient protein each day is absolutely essential.

The list of benefits of protein is endless, but here are a few key functions of protein in the body:

⇒ Protein boosts the immune system.

When you think about boosting the immune system, you may reach for the vitamin C and zinc. While these nutrients are certainly helpful, did you know that the antibodies that fight disease are made of protein? Be sure to get adequate protein to keep your immune system functioning at its best.

⇒ Protein delivers amino acids.

Amino acids are the building blocks of the body. They play a role in myriad body processes, from building and preserving cells to enabling enzyme and hormonal function. While our body can manufacture some amino acids on its own (these are called non-essential amino acids), we must obtain others—aka essential amino acids—through a protein-rich diet.

⇒ Protein preserves lean muscle.

The amino acids protein delivers help to build and repair muscle, but also prevent muscle wasting. Particularly when it comes to weight loss, maintaining adequate protein in the diet ensures that the pounds you’re losing are fat, not muscle.

⇒ Protein increases metabolism.

When you eat protein with every meal (approximately 30 grams per meal), you avoid insulin spikes that tell the body to store fat, making your body a fat-burning machine all day long!

Not all protein sources are created equal

Now that we’ve established how important protein is our daily diet, let’s talk about the ideal source of protein. You may be surprised to learn that your body does not respond the same to a gram of protein from an animal source as it does to a gram of protein isolate (e.g., in a protein shake or bar.) Consider this, if you eat a 5oz. Filet Mignon, you will consume approximately 200 calories and 25 grams of protein, but your body will only absorb 15 grams of that protein, or approximately 60%. With a Shape Up Church shake, you consume approximately 130 calories and 25 grams of protein. However, with the shake, your body will absorb nearly 24 grams of the protein, or approximately 90%!

As you can see, Shape Up Church Abundant Life Protein and other protein snacks and beverages are a great way to meet your daily protein needs. You may already know and love our Abundant Life Protein, but be on the lookout for tomorrow’s sale email for a chance to save on our refreshing, protein-packed Fruit Drink Variety Pack!

Join the discussion on Facebook: what are some of your favorite ways to incorporate more protein in your diet?