Why eating protein-rich foods is important
Protein is an essential part of our diets, and it is far more important than we realise. Sure, it helps you build muscle, but its benefits extend beyond helping you get those gainz. Even if you’re not an avid gym goer, eating enough protein can impact your health and well-being in myriad ways, from boosting your immune system to improving your brainpower.
Lest you need more convincing, here’s why it’s important to eat protein-rich foods, alongside tips and tricks to getting enough protein in your diet.
Image credit: Zula
How much protein do I need?
First things first: how much protein do you need? According to HealthHub, for the average Singaporean adult aged 18 to 49, the recommended daily protein intake is around 0.8g per kg of body weight. Typically, this means that adults aged 18 to 49 should consume approximately 50g to 60g of protein each day.
However, adults aged 50 and above should aim for a higher intake of 1.2g per kg of body weight.Â
1. Protein helps keep you full
If you find yourself prone to snacking often and want to kick the habit, it’s a sign that you probably need more protein in your diet. Protein helps you feel fuller for longer, which can curb your pesky snack cravings and minimise over-eating.
Also, your body burns more calories digesting protein than it does with fats or carbs, giving your metabolism a little boost.
2. Protein helps improve your brainpower and focus
We’re all guilty of the midday slump where our brains start wandering from our task at hand. Try adding more protein to your meals and see the difference it can make! Eating enough protein has scientifically proven benefits on your focus, mood, and attention span.Â
How? Well, amino acids from proteins are essential for creating neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine, which influence mood, focus, and attention. Additionally, protein helps stabilise blood sugar levels, preventing energy dips that can lead to fatigue and reduced concentration.
3. Protein keeps your bones strong
Growing up, you’ve probably been schooled to drink more milk because calcium builds strong bones. Well, protein is equally important for bone health as well! Getting enough protein can help maintain bone density and reduce the risk of fractures, especially as you get older. Â
4. Protein boosts your immune system
The pandemic enforced the importance of having a strong immune system on us all. Eating adequate amounts of protein can actually boost your immune system, as said system relies on protein to create antibodies. Antibodies help your body fight off illnesses and recover faster, but having a strong immune system overall also means you minimise your chances of falling sick. There’s a reason why people recommend chicken soup and chicken essence when you’re down with the flu, after all.
5. Protein helps keep your hair, skin, and nails healthy
Collagen supplements are all the rage right now because they promise stronger and shinier hair and nails, as well as anti-ageing benefits for your complexion. FYI: collagen is actually a protein, and you don’t need to splurge on pure collagen supplements to reap its benefits. Just be sure you consume enough protein daily, and you’ll look as good as you feel.
What protein-rich foods are the best?
Whole foods such as meat, fish, tofu, legumes, and eggs are the gold standard, but there’s only so much one can eat. Protein shakes, yoghurt, and cheeses are also protein powerhouses, though they’re not the most ideal sources if you’re lactose intolerant.Â
If you’re looking for a quick and nutritious way to boost your daily protein intake, start incorporating Eu Yan Sang’s bestselling Traditional Essence of Chicken ($19.90) to your daily routine. Made from 100% premium graded chicken, with no caramel colouring added, the Traditional Essence of Chicken packs a whopping 8.7g of protein per 100g. FYI: this is the only chicken essence in Singapore without caramel colouring.
The essence also doesn’t contain fat or cholesterol, nor preservatives, other artificial colouring, artificial flavouring or salt. It is also halal-certified!
Image credit: Eu Yan Sang
For those who prefer their chicken essence with more protein per serving, try the Organic High Protein Drip Chicken Essence ($68.50). The essence contains 18 types of easily absorbed amino acids and 10.1g of protein per 100g.Â
These chicken essences support energy production, memory, and immune function, as well as your overall well-being.
Eu Yan Sang also has a variety of other chicken essence products that offer targeted health benefits, so add those to your radar if you’re thinking of boosting your daily supplement regimen, or gifting practical gifts to your loved ones.
Some highlights include their Essence Of Chicken With Ginkgo Biloba Leaf ($27.90), which touts brain-boosting benefits, Essence Of Chicken With Dang Gui & Pearl ($31.90) for nourishment during or after one’s menstrual cycle or post-partum, and Essence Of Chicken With Goji Berries & Red Dates ($24.90) to alleviate strained vision. The Essence Of Chicken With American Ginseng, Cordyceps & Huaishan ($35.90) is another popular high-protein bestseller, with immune-boosting ingredients.
Another alternative to their chicken essence is the Traditional Essence of Fish ($21.90), instead. This OG fish essence in the Eu Yan Sang range does have 7.6g of protein per 100g, so that still packs a punch!
Now that you’re dialled in on the importance of eating enough protein, try out Eu Yan Sang’s chicken essence range and other products if you’re trying to incorporate more protein into your daily diet, and reap all its benefits.
Also, Eu Yan Sang is running a buy two get one free offer till 15 August 2024, so there’s no time like the present to buy their products. Shop via the link below!
Buy Eu Yan Sang’s essences here!Â
Photos taken by Paula Formantes.
This post is brought to you by Eu Yan Sang.
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