Remember what we learnt about proteins in school? They are the building blocks of life! From head to toe, our whole body is made of proteins.
If you want to get that chiselled body, the six pack abs, you are often recommended to consume a protein-rich diet. But has anyone ever recommended you a diet inclusive of protein if you are feeling blue?
A little bit of fine tuning in your daily nourishment can boost your physical as well as mental health.
Why protein-rich diet is important?
Proteins constitute the hair on your head, the nails on your fingers, brain cells, hormones, tissues and every other part of your body. And hence, it makes proteins vital as a part of your daily meals.
Physical Health Benefits
Eating protein is now like a bandwagon. It’s not just the bodybuilders or sportsperson who follow the protein-rich diet, but a lot of people are on the same track.
Proteins when consumed while being on any kind of physical training enhances muscular development. A small portion of protein-rich diet makes you feel more sated. This controls calorie intake. Eating more of it increases metabolism, thus helping you to burn more calories. Proteins strengthen tissues and tendons and help you with fast recovery from an injury.
But immoderate consumption can make you gain weight as excess proteins get stored in the body as fat. Hence, have a recommended amount.
Mental Health Benefits
Not just a healthy and attractive body but you can also dictate your mental health if you consume the right amount of protein. Neurons are made of fat but communicate via protein. Proteins are a rich source of amino acids. Most neurotransmitters are built from amino acids.
Serotonin, Dopamine and Norepinephrine are the neurotransmitters that are obtained from the amino acid that we get from the proteins. This help to deal with few of the following aspects of mental health:
1. Mood swings
2. Sleeping patterns
3. Anxiety Issues
4. Concentration Issues and Attention Span
5. Learning and Memory
Proteins are natural mood stabilizers. If our body lacks the apt amount of amino acids, it leads to a decline in the production of neurotransmitters. This can result in various mental illnesses.
So make sure you include a portion of protein in each meal. Remember good food makes good mood!
Dr Prerna Kohli endorses a protein-rich diet to enhance mental health. Please click on the image below to know more..
Know more about Dr Prerna Kohli
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