benefits of protein

Benefits of Protein

Why do we need it?

Our bodies need protein to support a wide range of physiological function including the growth, maintenance and repair of the  bodies tissues.

Muscle Health: Protein in our muscles are constantly being broken down and rebuilt naturally in day to day life and during exercise. So it is important to have an adequate protein intake to help repair muscle breakdown.

Bone Health: Adequate dietary protein is essential for optimal bone growth during childhood and adolescence and also helps to maintain bone health as we get older.

How much protein do we need?

The EU daily reference intake for protein in adults is 50g per day.

Protein content in a ranges of different foods.

Food

Average Serving

Protein Content

Avonmore Milk Range Average

250ml

8.7g

Avonmore Protein Milk

250ml

12.7g

Cheddar Cheese

30g

8g

Eggs

50g

6.2g

Baked Beans

190g

9.8g

Mixed Nuts

50g

11.4g

Fish Cod Baked

175g

37g

Chicken Grilled

150g

45g

Beef rump steak grilled

150g

47g

 

Are all protein sources the same?

  • Proteins are comprised of 21 amino acids, 9 of which are considered essential, which means the body cannot make them and they must be eaten in the diet. Amino acids can be found in both foods of animal and plant sources.
  • Animal sources of protein such as milk, meat and cheese contain all of the nine amino acids we need,  making them a complete protein source.
  • Plant sources of protein such as fruits, vegetables, grains, nuts and seeds, tend to lack one or more of the essential amino acid, making them an incomplete protein source.

 

What are milk proteins made up of?

  • Milk is a complete protein source which means it naturally  contains all of the 9 essential amino acids our bodies cannot make by itself.
  • The major proteins in milk are called casein and whey, milk contains about 80% casein and 20% whey.