Health & Weight Management (Pt. 2): Protein
Personalizing Protein Intake
"We want weight loss, but we don't want people to lose any lean mass. Especially if they're adults."
- Don Layman
Protein Intake Calculator
Activity Multipliers:
Low Activity (Sedentary Lifestyle) = 1.5
Moderate Activity (Light Exercise) = 1.75
High Activity (Active Lifestyle) = 2.0
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Importance of Leucine in Muscle Maintenance and Building
Leucine, an essential amino acid, plays a pivotal role in promoting muscle protein synthesis, maintaining lean muscle mass, and aiding muscle recovery. It achieves this by activating the mTOR pathway, a critical regulator in muscle protein synthesis. Non-vegan proteins high in leucine tend to be particularly effective for lean muscle maintenance and building due to their superior amino acid profile. This profile is often more conducive to muscle anabolism compared to most plant-based sources.
Age-Related Changes in Protein Synthesis
As individuals age, the efficiency of protein turnover decreases. A 16-year-old might have a robust response to a certain amount of protein, while a 65-year-old might only have 10% of that response. By providing an enriched source of essential amino acids, especially leucine, older adults can achieve a protein synthesis response similar to younger individuals.
Plant-Based Diets and Protein
Individuals on a plant-based diet often decrease both the quantity and quality of their protein intake. If one is on a plant-based diet, they might need more protein, which could mean consuming more calories. It's essential to be aware of the protein content in plant-based products.
Anabolic Resistance and Protein Timing
Anabolic resistance can be overcome by consuming a higher amount of protein. Hormones play a crucial role in this process. For instance, insulin and IGF-1 are dominant hormones that drive growth in younger individuals. However, as one stops growing, the focus shifts to protein quality. It's beneficial to front-load protein during the day, aiming for at least two meals with more than 30g of protein.
Amino Acids
Amino acids are the building blocks of proteins. While some can be produced by the body, nine essential amino acids cannot be synthesized and must be obtained from the diet. Each amino acid has a unique structure and function. For instance, leucine plays a pivotal role in muscle protein synthesis.
Recommended Non-Vegan Protein Sources High in Leucine
- Lean Meats: Options include beef, lamb, and pork. Consider lean cuts to maximize protein while managing fat intake.
- Fish: Fatty fish, such as salmon, can be an unconventional yet nutritious choice for breakfast, rich in omega-3 and leucine.
- Poultry: Chicken and turkey, possibly in the form of lean sausages or slices, can be integrated into breakfast dishes.
- Eggs: A versatile breakfast option, eggs are also a fantastic source of leucine and can be prepared in numerous ways to keep breakfast exciting.
- Dairy: Products like Greek yogurt and cottage cheese offer abundant leucine and can serve as a base for savory or sweet breakfast dishes.
Pairing these leucine-rich protein sources with whole grains, vegetables, and healthy fats can create a balanced and protein-rich breakfast, fostering optimal muscle maintenance and growth.
Calculate Your Protein Intake
"The building blocks of life, protein is essential for every cell in the body."
- Nutritionist
Protein Intake Calculator
Recommended Protein Products
Recommended Protein ProductsRecommended Protein Products
Core Power Fairlife Elite 42g High Protein MilkCalories: 240 per serving Protein: 42g per serving Recommendation: A convenient premade shake perfect for breakfast, packed with essential vitamins and minerals. Link to Product |
EPIC Chicken Sriracha Protein Bars, Whole30, Keto FriendlyCalories: 100 per serving Protein: 11g per serving Recommendation: Keto-friendly bars with a spicy kick, ideal for on-the-go snacking. Link to Product |
Body Fortress Super Advanced Whey Protein Powder, Cookies N’ CrèmeCalories: 180 per scoop Protein: 30g per scoop Recommendation: A tasty protein powder with immune support, great for post-workout recovery. Link to Product |
The New Primal All Natural Turkey SticksCalories: 45 per stick Protein: 7g per stick Recommendation: Natural turkey sticks with a refreshing cilantro lime flavor, perfect for a light protein snack. Link to Product |
Optimum Nutrition Platinum Hydrowhey Protein PowderCalories: 140 per serving Protein: 30g per serving Recommendation: Made with advanced hydrolyzed whey for faster protein delivery, ideal for serious muscle building. Link to Product |