Protein is often called the building block of life—and for good reason. Every cell in your body contains it. Whether you’re working to maintain a healthy weight, build lean muscle, recover from exercise, or simply support your overall wellness, protein plays a key role. Yet, many people don’t get enough of it in their daily diet. In this post, we’ll break down why protein is essential, how it benefits your body, and how much you really need to stay healthy.
Why Your Body Needs Protein
Protein is made up of amino acids, which are the building blocks for nearly every tissue in the body. Here’s how adequate protein intake supports your health:
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Muscle Repair & Growth: Whether you're lifting weights or chasing kids around the house, your muscles rely on protein to repair and grow stronger.
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Weight Management: Protein helps you feel full longer, which can reduce cravings and support healthy eating habits.
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Immune Function: Certain proteins help form antibodies and immune cells that fight off illness.
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Hormone & Enzyme Production: Many hormones and enzymes that regulate bodily functions are made from protein.
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Healthy Hair, Skin & Nails: These tissues are largely made of structural proteins like keratin and collagen.
How Much Protein Do You Need?
The amount of protein you need depends on several factors, including your age, gender, activity level, and health goals.
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General Recommendation:
The Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) is 0.8 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight per day. For a 150-pound person, that’s about 55 grams per day. But that’s just the minimum to prevent deficiency. -
For Active Individuals & Athletes:
If you exercise regularly or are trying to build muscle, you may need closer to 1.2 to 2.0 grams per kilogram of body weight. That’s 82 to 136 grams per day for a 150-pound person. -
For Weight Loss or Healthy Aging:
Higher protein intake can help preserve muscle mass and boost metabolism. In these cases, 1.2–1.6 grams per kilogram is often recommended.
Best Sources of Protein
You can get protein from a wide range of foods—both animal- and plant-based. Here are some great options:
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Animal-Based: Chicken, fish, lean beef, eggs, Greek yogurt, cottage cheese, whey protein
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Plant-Based: Lentils, quinoa, chickpeas, black beans, tofu, tempeh, edamame, nuts & seeds
If you're not able to meet your protein needs through food alone, high-quality protein supplements can help fill the gap.
Final Thoughts
Getting enough protein isn’t just for bodybuilders—it’s for everyone. It supports muscle health, keeps your metabolism active, boosts immunity, and helps you feel your best. Whether your goal is to build strength, lose weight, age well, or simply eat a more balanced diet, protein deserves a central spot on your plate.
Explore Your Options
Looking for easy and delicious ways to boost your protein intake?
Check out these high-quality Shaklee protein products I personally recommend:
👉 Meal Replacement Shakes – Shaklee
👉 Sparkling Protein – Shaklee
They’re convenient, nutritious, and perfect for anyone looking to live a healthier, more energized life. Give them a try today!
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