Protein as a food supplement
A healthy diet is essential for the proper functioning of the body and directly influences our energy, concentration, well-being, and even our mood . Eating a balanced diet is not just a matter of aesthetics or weight control ; it's about ensuring the body receives the necessary nutrients to maintain physical and mental health . Among the various necessary nutrients , protein plays a fundamental role in different processes in our body , most notably in the building and regeneration of tissues .
Therefore, understanding how to integrate properly the protein Including food in your daily diet, whether through food or supplements, is an essential step in promoting a healthier and more balanced lifestyle .
According to SNS 24, a healthy diet It should be varied, complete and balanced . This diet is based on the Mediterranean food wheel , which represents the dietary and cultural pattern characteristic of the Mediterranean lifestyle .
Over time, diets have undergone changes : some driven by personal preferences, others by specific needs . The food market had to adapt and respond to the demand for new products or different nutritional requirements.
Gradually , various versions of the same product emerged , such as different types of milk (soy, almond, oat, among others), different types of bread (with cereals, seeds, slow-fermented, with olives, etc.) or even possible alternatives . alternatives to meat (such as tofu, seitan, among others).
Although there is so much diversity around us, this does not mean that we always make the most correct or appropriate choices for our body's needs. Protein intake can be achieved in two ways: through protein-rich foods or through protein supplementation.
What is protein?
Protein is a supplement obtained from from the whey of cow's, sheep's or goat's milk . In our bodies , it performs several important functions, such as:
- Increased physical performance;
- Building or gaining muscle mass ;
Faster muscle recovery.
Despite its numerous benefits, the lack of or incorrect information, coupled with the growing trend towards self-diagnosis , has made the protein a sensitive topic to address, often associated with negative connotations , such as an increased risk of cardiovascular disease.
The different types of protein s
There are different types of protein , which vary according to their structure, origin, and function.
Regarding their origin, they can be:
- Animals : found through meat, fish, eggs, and milk .
Vegeta is : gifts in grains, legumes and nuts.
Regarding structure, a distinction is made between :
- Fibrous : elongated and resistant, with a structural function.
- Globular: spherical and soluble, with a metabolic function .
Depending on the function they perform , proteins can be :
- Contractile muscles : responsible for muscle contraction and movement ;
- Defensive: They protect the body against infections;
- Structural: provide support and strength to tissues;
- Enzymatic: accelerate chemical reactions in the body ;
- Regulatory: involved in physiological processes;
- Transporters: transport substances throughout the body.
Who can consume protein?
Technically , Anyone can consume protein, as it is an essential nutrient. However, the amount needed varies depending on age, lifestyle, and individual goals. Some groups that especially benefit from protein consumption are:
Athletes and sportspeople , since They require a higher protein intake for muscle recovery and growth, depending on the type of activity. However, protein is also recommended for the general population when it comes to the regeneration of muscles, bones, skin, and other tissues, as well as for the production of enzymes and hormones. This is especially true for vegetarians and vegans, as they can obtain protein from suitable plant-based sources.
For pregnant and breastfeeding women, protein intake is essential for the baby's development, and the same is true throughout growth, for good muscle and bone development.
For people recovering from surgery or injuries, protein plays a crucial role in tissue regeneration . In the elderly, due to aging, there is a natural loss of muscle mass; protein can help maintain strength and mobility.
The different ways to consume protein
Currently, there is a wide variety of proteins with different flavors and textures, making consumption more appealing and versatile. It's no longer necessary to consume protein in the same way .
It's important to remember that protein consumption should be monitored by a healthcare professional, as it's an extra supplement and can pose health risks . Excess nutrients can be just as harmful as a deficiency.
What is malnutrition?
Malnutrition is a condition in which the body does not receive the nutrients necessary to function properly. It can result from insufficient food intake, malabsorption of nutrients, or increased energy needs without adequate replenishment.
Possible consequences : impaired growth, immunity, and overall well -being .
Main types of malnutrition:
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Caloric malnutrition – a generalized lack of calories and nutrients, causing extreme weight loss, weakened muscles , and a gaunt appearance, common in situations of prolonged starvation .
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Protein malnutrition – Severe protein deficiency causes edema ( swelling), changes in skin and hair, weakness, and delayed growth.
Micronutrient deficiencies can also occur , such as:
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Iron – anemia
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Vitamin A – vision problems
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Iodine – thyroid problems.
Malnutrition can affect physical and cognitive development , weaken the immune system , and increase the risk of disease .
Prevention involves a balanced and varied diet, rich in protein, carbohydrates, healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals. In severe cases, medical and nutritional monitoring is essential.
Who is usually malnourished?
Although malnutrition can affect anyone, some groups are particularly vulnerable due to factors such as age , living conditions, and health status :
Children and babies – especially In developing countries, malnutrition compromises growth, learning, and immunity.
Hospitalized patients – people recovering from surgery, aggressive treatments (such as chemotherapy), or prolonged hospital stays – require adequate nutritional support.
Elderly people – with aging comes loss of appetite, difficulty chewing, diseases that affect absorption , and social isolation coupled with lack of access to nutritious food can worsen the problem.
People with chronic diseases – such as cancer, kidney failure, diabetes, intestinal diseases , or HIV/AIDS – can become malnourished due to increased energy needs or poor nutrient absorption.
People with eating disorders – such as anorexia and bulimia .
People living in poverty – due to difficulty accessing nutritious food.
Malnutrition can be prevented through a balanced diet and access to adequate healthcare. In severe cases, medical follow-up is essential to avoid complications.
Which protein is recommended to combat malnutrition?
A Resource Nestlé 's Pro tein is indicated to combat protein deficiencies and malnutrition.
It is an oral supplement for nutritional management, available in 5 flavors:
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Apricot
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Vanilla
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Coffee
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Chocolate
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Strawberry
A Resource Protein is recommended in cases of :
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Decreased protein intake (mild to moderate lack of appetite) ;
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Sarcopenia ;
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Frail elderly person;
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Surgical intervention following a hip fracture;
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Pressure ulcers;
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Dementia and Alzheimer's disease ;
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Difficulty swallowing (obstructive pathology);
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Maxillofacial surgery .
These 5 varieties of protein are available for sale at Health Best .
Recipe for protein-rich banana and vanilla pancakes.
These pancakes are an excellent way to consume protein while retaining essential nutrients in a simple recipe.
Ingredients
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2 bananas
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2 eggs
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1 cup of almond flour
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30 ml d a protein resource Nestlé protein ( vanilla flavor )
Coverage
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Almond slivers
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Strawberries
Preparation method
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Mash the bananas, add the eggs and mix well .
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Add the almond flour and 30 ml of protein, mixing everything until you obtain a homogeneous dough.
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Cook in a non-stick frying pan over low heat until golden brown on both sides.
