Importance of Protein for Young Gymnasts

Protein. You can see it on the back label of the packaging of the foods we eat, but do you really know what is it and its role in your health? Probably you have a little-to-no idea on how protein really works for your body, but that’s not a problem! Just read through this article and we’ll discuss the importance of protein in your overall health and well-being.

First of all, what is protein? Protein is a large, complex molecule that plays a critical role in your body. Protein is made up of several amino acids which are all essential for the proper function of our body. Next to water, protein is the second most abundant substance in our body.

A large portion of our body, (the tissues, muscles and organs) are all made up of protein, so it is critical for us to take an adequate amount of protein for our body to properly build, maintain, and repair these tissues and muscles. Aside for the recovery and maintenance of cells, certain amino acids are also responsible for transporting nutrients and oxygens to the other parts of our body.

Most athletes and health-conscious individuals use protein for its fat-controlling and muscle-building capabilities. Those individuals who want to lose some weight replaces their daily meals with foods rich in protein, as protein-rich foods are believed to contribute largely to the feeling of fullness (satiety), enabling them to intake lesser amounts of calories without suffering from craving and hunger. On the other hand, those who wants to build stronger, bigger muscles combines their weight training exercise with a high-protein diet, as protein is the one responsible for repairing microscopic muscle tears acquired from weight training. Once repaired, these muscle tissues will appear to be stronger and bigger in size.

Protein Sources

Most of the foods that we eat on a daily basis contains an adequate amount of protein. However, we can get the most amount of proteins from foods such as eggs, beef, pork, chicken, nuts, seeds, legumes, milk and other dairy products. Aside from protein, these foods also deliver other essential nutrients to our body, so make sure to include them to your diet!

Complete and Incomplete Proteins

Not all things are created equal. That statement is also applicable for protein and its food sources. As we have discussed earlier, protein is made up of several different amino acids which are all important for the proper growth and development of our body. Protein is made up of 20 different amino acids, which are broken down into two categories: essential and non-essential amino acids. Non-essential amino acids (a total of 11) are the amino acids which naturally occur in our body, and can be produced by the body within the liver. Essential amino acids (9 in total), on the other hand, cannot be produced by the body and can only be obtained through proper diet.

You must be aware that not all food sources contain COMPLETE proteins. A protein can only be considered “complete” if it contains all of the 9 essential amino acids. Protein from animal sources such as Meat (Chicken, Beef, Pork), Fish and Milk are considered a complete protein, because it contains all of the essential amino acids. On the other hand, vegetables such as peanuts and beans, are considered “incomplete protein” because it lacks one or more essential amino acid. Eating a wide variety of incomplete proteins will allow you to have an adequate source of different essential amino acids, making a complete protein out of several incomplete proteins.

Why Should Young Gymnasts Take Protein?

Gymnastics for kids is a physically-demanding activity, and taking an adequate amount of protein will be beneficial for faster recovery of gymnasts. After long hours of training session, a young gymnasts body has gone through strenuous physical activities, subjecting their bodies to microscopic tears. Eating a high-protein food source will help them recover faster, and it also helps to make their muscles stronger.

Aside from that, taking a high-protein meal also helps your body supply lasting amounts of energy, allowing you to feel energized throughout the day.

So, if you want your child to have a bright future in her sport, providing great nutrition is just one of the steps you should take. You should also consider sending her to a school that can provide her the highest quality of training and education. Learn gymnastics for kids with us. Enroll her today at Bianka Panova Sport and Art Academy and let her learn and enjoy through her way to success! :)

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