If like many. you have taken to exercise since this lockdown has begun, well done. Whether it be running, weight training , Yoga etc your body will need replenishing there after and through out the day.Protein is the only food group that provides us with essential amino acids to make/ maintain muscle tissue, so it is well worth increasing your daily intake.
It makes intuitive sense that protein in our diets should aid in bulking up muscles in our bodies, since muscles consist mostly of protein. When we lift weights, we stress the muscles and cause minute damage to muscle tissue, which then makes new proteins to heal.
How much protein should you eat?
The amount of protein you need to eat each day depends on your activity level and bodyweight. If you are sedentary you should eat 0.5-1g of protein per kg of bodyweight per day. If you’re exercising regularly you may need to up your intake to 1-1.5g per kg of bodyweight a day. Obviously this varies but these are a basic guideline that have been back by countless studies.
Good sources of protein
If you eat meat. Here are some of the best lean protein sources available.
Chicken, Turkey , Eggs , Steak , Greek Yoghurt , Fish and nuts.
If you do not eat meat. Here are some of the best lean protein sources available.
Chickpeas , Seeds , Nuts , Lentils , Greek Yoghurt , Beans and Tofu.