DON’ T MISS THE MEAT | QSM 7
And that was just what I did. I came up with some awful diagnosis and thought I should go and get myself checked out just to see how long I had to live. Needless to say my over-dramatic self was wrong. My doctor confirmed that I was not getting enough protein in my diet.
According to WebMD Protein is an important component of every cell in the body. Hair and nails are mostly made of protein. Your body uses protein to build and repair tissues. You also use protein to make enzymes, hormones, and other body chemicals. Protein is an important building block of bones, muscles, cartilage, skin, and blood. Along with fat and carbohydrates, protein is a” macronutrient,” meaning that the body needs relatively large amounts of it. Vitamins and minerals, which are needed in only small quantities, are called” micronutrients.” But unlike fat and carbohydrates, the body does not store protein, and therefore has no reservoir to draw on when it needs a new supply.
Some signs that your protein intake may be low are:
• You feel very tired when you shouldn’ t be.
• Your hair is falling out. Meaning you actually take care of your hair and it begins falling out for no reason.
• Your body takes longer to heal itself.
• Your nails become brittle and soft.
• Your muscle density begins to decrease. Some foods that you can eat in place of your meat are:
• Nuts and seeds
• Eggs
• Beans
• Non Fat Mozzarella Cheese
• Apricots
The recommended amount of protein intake depends on your age, weight and some other factors. Be sure to always check with your physician before you decide to change your diet. And before you take out the meat make sure your body doesn’ t miss the meat.
WWW. QUEENSIZEMAGAZINE. COM | MARCH 2017 ISSUE