05/29/2026
WHAT DOES PROTEIN DO IN THE BODY? (part 2)
Understanding what protein does in the body goes way beyond muscle building. Protein plays a lot of important roles. Here's what protein does in the body, and why it matters:
1. PROTEIN BUILDS AND REPAIRS MUSCLE TISSUE
When you work out, your muscles get little tears in them. Muscles are made mostly of protein, so that's what they need to repair themselves. This is why it's so important to get more protein, and this is especially true around your workouts.
This is probably the most well-known answer to "what does protein do in the body," but it's just the beginning!
2. SUPPORTS HEALTHY SKIN, HAIR, AND NAILS
Your skin, hair, and nails are mostly made of protein. Getting enough protein helps them grow stronger and stay healthy. All tissues break down over time and need to be rebuilt. So if your hair, skin, and nails are important to you, make protein a priority.
3. HELPS FORM ENZYMES FOR DIGESTION AND METABOLISM
Your body uses protein to make enzymes. These help us break down food and speed up processes in our bodies. This is another crucial aspect of what protein does in the body that most people don't realize!
4. PRODUCES IMPORTANT HORMONES
Hormones like insulin, growth hormone, and even some brain chemicals are made from protein. Without them, our bodies can't send the right signals and function as we're supposed to.
5. BOOSTS THE IMMUNE SYSTEM
Your immune system uses protein to create antibodies and many other immune cells. These are the little fighters that help protect you from getting sick. This immune function is a vital part of what protein does in the body for overall health!
6. TRANSPORTS NUTRIENTS LIKE OXYGEN
Hemoglobin, a protein in red blood cells, carries oxygen from your lungs to the rest of your body. Other proteins move vitamins and nutrients around, too. To make these proteins optimally, we need adequate protein intake.
7. MAINTAINS PH BALANCE IN THE BODY
Proteins help your body regulate its pH level. We need our pH tightly regulated so it doesn't become too acidic or too basic. That balance is crucial for staying healthy.
8. PROMOTES SATIETY AND REDUCES CRAVINGS
Protein makes you feel full longer than carbs or fat. It can also help reduce sugar cravings and make it easier to stay on track with your goals.
9. HELPS REGULATE BLOOD SUGAR LEVELS
Eating protein with meals can slow down how fast sugar enters your bloodstream. This can help you avoid energy crashes throughout the day.
10. PROVIDES STRUCTURAL SUPPORT TO TISSUES
Protein builds the framework for tendons, ligaments, cartilage, and bones. Protein is not just in your muscles.
As you can see, the functions of protein in the body are incredibly diverse and essential for optimal health!
