Protein is essential for anyone, but if you're in the gym, it's even more important.
It is one of the three main macronutrients, and you must eat a good amount of protein if you want to have good results.
Not only should you eat good amounts, you should also choose quality protein sources.
Find out what protein is, the best types and how much you should use in your diet.
What is Protein?
Proteins are an essential macronutrient for the human body, and are composed of amino acids.
They perform several functions in the body, from repairing muscle tissue to providing energy.
Its most interesting role for those who work out in the gym is undoubtedly in building and repairing muscle tissue.
In other words, it is the nutrient with the most active and direct role in increasing muscle mass, and also in maintaining it.
Each gram of protein contains 4 kcal.
If you want to gain muscle mass, or maintain what you have, you need to consume an adequate amount of protein.
Types and quantities
Not all proteins are the same, and there are some sources that are better than others.
Biological value is the main way to evaluate the quality of a protein, and you should choose protein sources with a high biological value.
Proteins of animal origin are superior to proteins of plant origin.
In other words, the protein in a steak is higher than the protein in a can of beans.
This does not mean that you should only use animal sources, but they should be the basis of your diet.
Protein sources.
Fish, meat, eggs, milk, protein powder.
To learn more about what to eat to gain muscle mass, see this article.
Regarding the amount of proteins you should eat per day, you know it must be a considerable number, but how much?
See our article How much protein do I need per day?
Final notes
Protein is an essential nutrient, especially for those who work in the gym.
You should not only eat good quantities, but also choose quality sources.
Try to include protein sources in all your meals to get the best results.
Finally, if you have difficulty meeting your daily protein needs, you can opt for the famous protein powder shakes to help you.
