resistance training

Just like fat and carbohydrates, protein is a commonly misunderstood nutrient. And protein is critical for proper recovery and optimal functioning.

The big issue here, however, is that figuring out what is science and what is fiction can be very hard.

So, without further ado, here is how to make sure your protein intake isn’t holding you back:

1. Don’t have too much of it: Paradoxically, eating too much protein will cause your body to burn more protein for energy. In fact, the best way to preserve your body stores of protein is by eating carbohydrates. So make sure you don’t go on a high protein diet.

2. Hydrate often in small amounts: By drinking small amounts of water consistently during the day, you will provide the optimal environment for protein digestion. You see, protein requires the most water for optimal digestion.

3. Eat complete proteins as often as possible: Complete proteins have all the amino acids in them. And proteins with all the amino acids are best absorbed by your body. Now if you are a vegetarian try to incorporate soy and if possible, egg whites into your diet.

4. Eat roughage: The more roughage you eat the better off you will be. You see, roughage decreases the rate of digestion of protein. And a slower digesting protein will be absorbed by your body with ease. Just like carbohydrates, slower digestion is better here.

5. Eat every 3 hours: Unfortunately, the human body does not have a good reserve of extra protein. So if you go more than 3 hours between meals your body will start to break down muscle protein for energy. Thus, eating smaller meals throughout the day is far better here.

6. Stay away from supplements: Powders and supplements will always be inferior to natural food. You see, the human body was designed to absorb whole food, not powders. The only exception here is right after your weight lifting workout.

Optimizing your protein intake is a great way to accelerate recovery and increase your health. The key here is to take action now, not later!

Writer Katherine Crawford, a fitness physiologist and recent arm fat sufferer, teaches how to lose arm flab. Figure out how to get sexy arms by visiting her blog with shake weight reviews now!