Monday, 1st August 2016
What is protein?
A class of nitrogenous organic compounds which have large molecules composed of one or more long chains of amino acids. and are an essential part of all living organisms, especially as structural components of body tissues such as muscle, hair, etc., and as enzymes and antibodies.
Where can I find protein?
Protein powder aside, you'll find it in the following foods:
Why is it so important?
Protein is a much needed nutrient when it comes to building muscle. Made up of amino acids, protein is essential for synthesising muscle.
How much protein should you consume?
Despite what you may hear, more protein doesn't always mean more gains. An average gym-goer only needs 1g of protein per pound of their body weight a day - Consume anymore and the chances are it will go to waste or result weight gain.
When should you consume protein?
Consuming 10-20g of protein within 20 minutes of a strength workout will encourage quicker muscle repair and help towards achieving muscle hypertrophy – your muscles do not care where this protein comes from, whether it is chicken, eggs or a protein shake.
By Fiona Cowgill, Personal Trainer