THE BASICS OF PROTEIN: SOME TAKEAWAYS-

The basics of protein: some takeaways-

Protein is literally translated as ‘primary substance’, amino acids are the building blocks of protein, and are responsible for all functions of your body. All your hormones, hemoglobin, red blood cells and enzymes have protein at the center. Since I cannot get into the ramifications of the whole yarn on protein, here’s what you should takeaway. 

1. It’s a myth that vegans and vegetarians do not get adequate protein from plant-based sources; a balanced vegetarian diet always supply adequate absorbable protein,
2. If you are a non-vegetarian, be careful of too much consumption as part of it becomes a toxic mucoid substance known as ‘ama’ in Ayurvedic tradition contributing to heavy mucous conditions that will make you sluggish and more attracted to stimulants like: alcohol, sugar, coffee. Overconsumption will also lead to acidic blood, calcium deficiency, and a tendency to cancers and other degenerative diseases. I know you are all thinking, well what does one do? Which leads me to my next point-
3.  Balance the consumption of animal protein with leafy greens and loads of vegetables; this way it assimilates better.
4. B12 obtained from animal foods for non-vegetarians; and amongst vegetarians can be sought out by including fermented foods in one’s diet, also in the healthy person abundant amounts are made by gut bacteria in the colon. 
5. Protein deficiencies will occur when the following happens: liver damage (caused by alcohol); a person who is addicted to sugars, soft drinks; a woman/man who has eating disorders: bulimia or anorexia. Those who do not eat whole grains, seeds, nuts or legumes; those who do not chew their food.

Signs of protein deficiency:

•  Lack of mental concentration
• Lack of emotional stability
•  Suppressed immune response
• Degeneration of body tissues and collagen 
• Joint pains, weak muscles, nails, hair loss
• Lack of energy

Improving protein utilization (Comes from the Traditional Chinese medicine System):

1.  Avoid intoxicants: coffee, alcohol, Indian chai (too much)
2. Avoid refined foods, especially sugar
3.  Avoid copious amounts of animal foods, balance with greens.
4. Improve lifestyle habits: Work, rest, sleep and exercise 
5. Combat stress levels.
6. Don’t multi-task, focus on completing one task at a time
7. Chew, chew and then chew some more!

Thoughts on protein edited from Paul Pitchford: Healing with Whole Foods