Remember, Coffee is not considered breakfast! Coffee spikes Cortisol and blood sugar without providing fuel. In the morning, Cortisol, our stress hormone naturally peaks and plays an important role in regulating blood sugar levels, by increasing it to provide energy for waking up, so having coffee before a protein breakfast will further increase cortisol levels. Moral of the story? Enjoy a delicious coffee after your protein breakfast.
Many times, we link the word protein with athletes and body builders, however, a high protein diet can be beneficial for your waistline, energy and focus, together with immunity.
Proteins are largely responsible for the structure of body cells and are essential for growth and development. In the body, protein substances make up muscles, ligaments, tendons, nails and hair, so consuming adequate amounts is vital and cannot be underestimated.
Since almost all neurotransmitters are made from protein, you can influence how you feel, by feeding your body with the right amount of protein (quality and quantity) to fuel your body optimally. For most adults, research shows us we require about 1.5-2.0g of protein per kilogram of body weight, keeping in mind, this amount will need to be tailored specifically to an individuals presenting picture, for example, an athlete’s protein requirements will differ from that of an individual recovering from illness, an adolescent or that of a vegan/vegetarian.
Protein helps with muscle repair, especially post exercise, assists with hormonal balance, helping to stabilise the stress hormone Cortisol and insulin and helps to keep you feeling fuller for longer, preventing those energy slumps. Protein helps to slow the release of carbohydrates into the bloodstream, controlling food cravings.
Tried Whey Protein Concentrate before?
Whey Protein Concentrate (WPC) is derived from dairy (a byproduct of cheese making), a complete protein, high in branched chain amino acids (BCAAs) and leucine, needed for muscle repair and recovery, providing the body with a steady supply of protein throughout the day and night. WPC has a typical protein content of over 80%, making it useful during hunger pangs between meals. This is particularly important if you know you will be skipping a meal, going without food for a long period of time and can be consumed after dinner, if you feel like snacking.
Look for a protein powder with ingredients list you can pronounce, a short list, using natural sweeteners and flavours including vanilla, cinnamon, cacao and stevia. Avoid artificial sweeteners, for example sucralose and aspartame and blends with stimulants which play havoc on energy and your adrenals.
Hi, I’m Anastasia, a Naturopath at Eastern Therapies and I can help support your health care needs.
