Why Increasing Protein Intake Is Crucial For Women's Health

Protein is a vital nutrient that plays a key role in maintaining and repairing the body. Women are increasingly opting for protein supplements due to a variety of reasons. One of the primary reasons is the role of protein in supporting muscle health. Women who engage in regular physical activity, particularly strength training, may require more protein to repair and build muscle tissue. Protein supplements can provide a convenient and efficient way to meet these increased needs.

Protein is essential for healthy skin, hair, and nails. These are largely made of protein, and a lack of it can lead to weak, brittle hair and nails, and dry, flaky skin. It's also an important building block of bones, muscles, cartilage, skin, and blood. Therefore, a sufficient protein intake is necessary for the body's growth, maintenance, and repair.

How protein supports weight management

Protein can aid in weight management. It is more satiating than carbohydrates or fats, which can help to reduce overall calorie intake. This is particularly important for women, as they often have a higher percentage of body fat and a lower percentage of muscle than men. Increasing protein intake can help to promote muscle growth and fat loss.

Protein can promote feelings of fullness, reducing overall calorie intake and aiding in weight loss or maintenance. Protein supplements can be a helpful tool in achieving these dietary goals, especially for women who may struggle to consume enough protein through food alone.

For example, vegetarians and vegans may struggle to get enough protein from plant-based sources, and a supplement can help fill this gap. Similarly, women with certain food allergies or intolerances may find protein supplements a useful alternative to traditional protein sources.

Protein needs and pregnancy

It is particularly important for women during certain stages of life. During pregnancy and breastfeeding, women need more protein to support the growth and development of the baby. Similarly, as women age, their protein needs increase to help prevent muscle loss and maintain bone health.

Protein plays a crucial role in immune function. It helps to form antibodies that are necessary to fight off infections and diseases. Without sufficient protein, women may be more susceptible to illness. Therefore, increasing protein intake can help to boost the immune system and promote overall health.

"At Gytree, we add superherbs and adaptogens. Shatavari is one such example of what strengthens our plant protein for women," says nutritionist Chahat Vasdev. "Shatavari has a combination of all these, first it has a stimulating effect on our immune cells by making our defence system strong, has phytochemical properties and is also known for its act as an adaptogen. All these combinations together help to build energy and strength in the body."

These days most women are opting for a strong and convenient combination of protein and adaptogens. 

Convenience also plays a significant role. In today's fast-paced world, many women may find it challenging to prepare and consume high-protein meals regularly. Protein supplements, such as plant protein shakes offer a quick and easy way to increase protein intake without requiring significant time or effort.

Increasing protein intake is crucial for women's health for a variety of reasons, including maintaining healthy skin, hair, and nails, promoting growth and repair in the body, aiding in weight management, supporting health during different life stages, and boosting immune function.