Protein supplements are essential to anyone’s diet, especially if you’re an athlete or exercise frequently. The benefits of protein supplements on mental health will help you with your workouts and keep your body healthy for years to come.
Protein works with the brain’s neurotransmitters to regulate behavior, mood, and cognition.
The brain comprises billions of nerve cells (neurons), which have branches that reach out like trees to connect with other nerve cells. The end of one neuron connects to another neuron via synapses. The synapses are small spaces between neurons where chemical messages are passed from one neuron to another across a tiny gap called a synaptic cleft.
A protein called a transporter helps move neurotransmitters across the synaptic cleft so they can cross from one neuron to another. A receptor protein lets neurotransmitters bind onto it, like keys fitting into locks so that they can activate the receiving neuron.
When an electrical signal travels down from one neuron to another through the synapse, it causes certain proteins in the receiving neuron to change shape and activate other proteins that send signals back up through their synapses. This process continues until it reaches its destination – a muscle cell, glandular tissue, or another part of the brain – where it triggers some response.
Protein helps the body produce hormones that affect mood.
The amino acid tryptophan is the building block of serotonin and niacin, which have been shown to improve mood and reduce anxiety.
The body breaks down protein into amino acids essential to bodily function. These amino acids help build muscle tissue and repair damaged cells in our bodies.
Protein supplements may increase energy levels and help you feel less hungry between meals because they help control blood sugar levels, preventing overeating later in the day.
Protein has been shown to help weight loss by helping keep you full longer after a meal or snack, preventing overeating, and eliminating cravings for unhealthy foods like sweets and fats.
Protein supplements have been shown to aid muscle recovery after exercise and injury because they increase protein synthesis within the body’s cells, allowing them to repair themselves more quickly than they would otherwise be able to do under normal circumstances.
Protein helps regulate sleep, which is important for mental health.
Sleep is one of the most important factors in our lives that can affect our moods and overall mental health.
When we don’t get enough sleep, it’s easy to feel tired, irritable, and stressed out. Sleep deprivation can also affect your decision-making abilities and make it harder for you to concentrate on tasks you need to complete.
Protein supplements can help regulate sleep because they contain tryptophan (an amino acid) that converts into serotonin in the brain. Serotonin helps you feel relaxed and calms your mind so you can fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer.
Protein supplements can provide a convenient source of protein.
It may be easier to take a protein powder in the morning before work instead of making time to eat an egg-and-cheese omelet or peanut butter sandwich on your way out the door. But if you’re relying solely on protein shakes as a breakfast replacement, you might miss out on other important nutrients from whole foods. Make sure that there is a balance.
A crucial part of good nutrition is eating sufficient protein. The body uses this macronutrient to regulate hormones, build muscle, and repair cells. Mental health issues like depression, anxiety, and lack of concentration can be improved with enough dietary protein. Research shows that combined with exercise and a high protein diet will enhance mental well-being. There are many types of high-quality protein sources available to you. They all have similar benefits for your mental health as long as you eat enough protein daily.
AJ Lloren is a registered nurse by profession, this loving mother of three is passionate about health, fitness, and digital marketing. She also loves public speaking, and traveling, and dreams of publishing a book one day. She is currently working as an Outreach Specialist and SEO writer for VPA Australia.
