Why Animal Proteins are Important to Our Health

Doctors warn about eating too much red meat, but it does have it's health advantages.

Animal protein is important in our diets because it is there that you mostly get a very important vitamin and that is B-12 and the amino acids that we don't get in other food to fuel our bodies.

When people skimp on meat they are 90% more likely to become deficient in vitamin B-12. B-12 is essential for nerve health and B-12 deficiency left untreated can lead to paralysis.

If you don't eat a lot of meat or are a vegan then it is important to have you B-12 level checked frequently. B-12 deficiency is an easy fix and can be returned to normal levels by getting shots or using B-12 nasal sprays.

As we get older our ability to absorb necessary vitamins become harder. People who have had weight loss sugery have the same problem. Sometimes supplements by mouth are not enough especially if you have an absorption problem.

Signs of B-12 deficiency are severely painful legs, numbness and tingling, in ability to walk properly, constipation or diarrhea and the inablity to focus. Once you get an injection you will have energy that you never thought was there.

I think that everyone should get the vitamin levels checked yearly once they reach 45, because you can be vitamin deficient and not even know it until it's too late.

If you do not eat meat then you must try to get your B-12 from fortified foods such as cereal.

If you love meat then no problem. Normal B-12 levels are 200-1000 but anything under 300 can be deficiency and most doctors will treat you at this point.

To your health. Live well, love much, and laugh often.

Protein intake is one nutrient that is drilled over and over again these days. Most articles spill forth diets high in protein. less in carbohydrates and advertisements for protein powders in the media. Protein is, of course, an important building block in the body, but it is not the only building block. All proteins are not created equal.

The human body in its complexity needs dozens of nutritive substances. The one that stands before all others is protein, or proteins, since there is not one but hundreds of kinds of protein.(Fred Kummerow, PHD October 2011)

Proteins contribute the following benefits:

• We are literally made of protein from our bones to our muscles, arteries and veins, skin, hair, and fingernails. Our heart, brain, liver, kidneys, and lungs are built of tissue made of proteins.

• Proteins help carry the oxygen that reddens our blood.

• In the form of enzymes, proteins digest our food, synthesize essential substances, and break down waste products for elimination.

• When fat and carbohydrates are insufficient, proteins produce the energy we need for life.

• Proteins in combination with a substance called sterols form hormones, which regulate the delicate chemical changes that constantly take place within the body.

• The chromosomes, which pass on our characteristics to our children, include protein in their structure.

• Protein is needed to “carry” fat and cholesterol throughout the body.

To be short of protein is to be lacking in the very substance of life.

Vegetarians have to find other alternatives for their protein. If you just stopped consuming protein it wouldn't take long for your body to start burning muscle mass. Once muscle is gone, there is no way to recover it. (by Katrina Love Senn October 1, 2014 )

1. Peas

Not only are peas in every kitchen they are an excellent source of protein. I know you are thinking starchy carbs but peas enjoyed fresh or frozen have some of the highest protein available of any vegetable. So, next time you are looking for a little protein boost, remember your mother saying "eat your peas"

2. Spinach

You might already know spinach as a popular "super food", but now you can eat it knowing that it is also a great source of protein, too. This vegetable is loaded with vitamins, minerals and antioxidants and within that deep dark green color is also plenty of protein and what is better then a spinach salad. I won't eat it cooked but fresh it is heaven.

3. Kale

Truly one of the best greens and vegetable choices out there, kale is the definition of a super food. Make it into a salad, add it to soup or casserole, or blend a handful into a green smoothie, knowing that you are getting your protein. It is not on my list of favorites.

4. Broccoli

As well as protein, broccoli is also high in fiber, antioxidants and minerals. With a broad range of vitamins on offer, you can use cooked or raw broccoli as a main menu item. Eat broccoli in salads, soups, or simply steamed by itself with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.

5. Sprouts

There are so many different varieties of fresh sprouts available and the thing I love about them is that they are living until you pick them. (You can't get any fresher than that.) Sprouts make a healthy addition to sandwiches, salads and soups. Try mixing the various kinds of sprouts that are available, as the different varieties are all delicious.

6.

With a firm texture and immune boosting properties, especially the cordycep, reishi and maitake varieties, mushrooms make a tasty, nutritious and filling main meal. I know you are saying they are a fungus and that is true but they add so much flavor to food. Serve them with freshly scrambled eggs for a healthy weekend brunch.

7. Brussel Sprouts

This cruciferous vegetable is not only high in protein, but also fiber. I have never been a fan of anything that tasted like cabbage. This is a hard one for me to grasp but there are many people out there that love brussel sprouts

8. Artichokes

You can eat artichokes in many different ways including blended, steamed or roasted. They are so delicious and filling (thanks to the high protein) that you may very well may make them the main part of your meal. You peel away this lovely veggie to get to the heart of the matter but artichoke hearts are delicious and satisfying.

9. Asparagus

Not only are asparagus high in protein, but they also assist your body with detoxification. Asparagus are also high in fiber, which fills you up and leaves you feeling satisfied and satiated after eating.

10. Corn

In addition to its high fiber content, a serving of corn packs a solid protein punch. Best eaten fresh from the cob, you can also get the benefits off-season through frozen or canned kernels. I have always said corn had no nutrional value because it comes out whole, but I guess it has its good points also.

Protein keeps us full and helps burn fat. Our bodies can be well oiled machines if we eat right. Digestion extracts all the key nutrients that our bodies need to function and if you are eating a balanced diet rich in protein, you should never have a problem losing weight.

Weight loss surgeries are about high protein and low carbs. Its the key to successful weight loss. Without protein our bodies can not work properly.