Protein : Everything you need to know.

Everything You Need to Know About Protein

Protein is one of the most important nutrients your body needs to stay healthy and function properly. Whether you’re looking to build muscle, lose weight, or just maintain overall health, understanding protein can help you make better choices in your diet. So let’s break it down in simple terms.

What is Protein?

At its core, protein is a type of nutrient that your body uses for a variety of essential tasks. It’s involved in building muscles, repairing tissues, producing enzymes and hormones, and even supporting your immune system. Think of protein as the construction crew for your body—it helps keep everything running smoothly.

Amino Acids: The Building Blocks

Now, protein itself is made up of smaller units called amino acids. You can think of amino acids as LEGO blocks. There are 20 different types of amino acids, and when these blocks are arranged in different ways, they create different proteins. Just like how different combinations of LEGO blocks can build different things, the way amino acids are arranged creates proteins that have specific jobs in your body.

Essential and Non-Essential Amino Acids

Out of the 20 amino acids, 9 are called essential amino acids, which means your body can’t make them on its own—you have to get them from food. The other 11 are non-essential amino acids, which your body can produce on its own. This is why it’s important to eat foods that contain protein; you’re getting those essential amino acids your body can’t make.

Complete vs. Incomplete Proteins

Not all proteins are created equal. Some foods contain complete proteins, meaning they have all 9 essential amino acids. Examples of complete protein sources include meat, fish, eggs, dairy, and even quinoa.

Other foods contain incomplete proteins, which means they are missing one or more essential amino acids. Plant-based sources like beans, lentils, and grains are often incomplete proteins. But don’t worry—by combining different plant proteins (like rice and beans), you can still get a full amino acid profile.

How Much Protein Do You Need?

The amount of protein you need depends on your activity level, goals, and overall health. As a general guideline, most people should aim for around 0.8 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight. However, if you're active or trying to build muscle, you might need more—closer to 1.2 to 2.2 grams per kilogram.

Why is Protein Important?

Without enough protein, your body can’t repair tissues, build muscle, or maintain proper immune function. That’s why it’s essential to include it in your diet, especially if you’re aiming for fitness goals or overall health. Plus, protein helps keep you fuller for longer, making it a great tool if you’re trying to manage your weight.

 

Integrating Protein into Your Diet

Incorporating protein into your daily diet can be simple and delicious. Here are some tips:

• Breakfast: Start your day with a protein-rich breakfast, such as eggs, Greek yogurt, or a smoothie with protein powder.
• Snacks: Opt for protein-packed snacks like nuts, cheese, or a protein bar.
• Meals: Include a source of protein in every meal, such as grilled chicken, tofu stir-fry, or a quinoa salad.
• Supplements: If you find it challenging to meet your protein needs through food alone, consider supplementing with protein powder.

The Naked Wellness Company Protein

At The Naked Wellness Company, we offer high-quality, unflavoured protein supplements that are free of added ingredients, fillers, and sugars. Our products are designed to provide you with exactly what you need to support your health and fitness goals—pure, versatile, and easy to integrate into your regular diet.

 

Protein isn’t as complicated as it seems. Just remember: it’s essential for keeping your body strong, energized, and healthy. By understanding what protein is, how it works, and why it’s important, you’re already one step closer to reaching your health and fitness goals!