Is Protein Only For Bodybuilders?

Protein has been given a reputation in recent years as only being for muscled men who like to lift heavy weights in the gym.

Let us start by saying that this not the case. In fact, protein is good for everyone, no matter if you’re a gym junkie or not.

Protein is an essential part of our diet. The amino acids in protein are integral to the biological processes that happen within our bodies, such as giving cells their structure and transporting and storing nutrients, as well as forming our organs, glands, arteries and muscles. They’re also essential for healing wounds and repairing tissue, especially in the muscles, skin, bones and hair.

Essential amino acids are not produced naturally by the body, so they have to be obtained from the foods we eat. It’s therefore crucial to obtain protein in your diet.

For both men and women, the obvious signs you need to eat more protein include having brittle hair, skin and nails, not seeing results at the gym or not being able to lose weight, healing slowly, getting brain fog, and craving sugary sweets.

Although it is essential for gym junkies, protein is also important for all active people, especially post-workout. Studies have shown that protein intake is vital after exercise, as it assists the repair of exercise-induced damage to muscle fibres. It also facilitates the replenishment of depleted energy stores.

After exercise, our muscles act similarly to sponges - they absorb whatever nutrition we feed ourselves with. That’s why consuming a high-quality protein is integral - it will help your muscle fibres repair and rebuild themselves, and will help to restore your energy levels.

So no matter what exercise you’re doing, whether it be running, circuit training, yoga, swimming, walking, etc, protein can greatly improve both your recovery after exercise, and your general wellbeing.

To prove it, here are three uses for protein that aren't for bodybuilders.

1. Weightloss

Protein assists with weight loss by reducing hunger and boosting your metabolism. We recommend consuming our WPI blends or a plant-based protein such as our Coconut & Vanilla Plant Protein with a high-quality milk (oat, nut, or dairy) to stop cravings and stay nutritionally satisfied until your next meal.

For flavour inspiration, and for extra superfood boost, it’s worth checking out The Weightloss Bundle, which assist you in reaching your weight loss goals.

2. Vitality

Protein will help to build your overall wellness and immune system, as well as many other benefits such as greater energy levels, healthier hair and nails, and glowing skin. Consume one serving of our WPI blends or a plant-based protein in the morning to watch your energy levels rise.

3. Lean muscle/toning

Protein will help to tone lean muscles, as it assists the repair of exercise-induced damage to muscle fibres, creating lean, strong, and more capable muscles.

Check out The Strength Bundle for this one. It’ll make sure you’re getting the most out of your workouts, and help your muscles to tone.

Protein powders, such as our Whey Protein Isolate blends, are extremely versatile, and can be added to an endless number of smoothies and raw treats.

These blends are also extremely handy for quick, nutrient-dense breakfast smoothies when you don't have time for anything else. Blending up a serve of our WPI with dairy/nut milk or your liquid of choice, with some frozen fruit is a delicious healthy breakfast which will keep you sustained, and contain the protein and amino acids which your body needs to recover and perform optimally.

So no matter if you’re a gym junkie, or just a regular active person, protein can greatly benefits your health in a number of ways.

For some inspiration on how to get more protein in your daily diet, check out these protein-packed recipes.

The Bare Greens Bar

These are protein bars without the added ‘natural’ flavours or sweeteners. They’re perfect to boost your energy before or after a workout, they even make a convenient breakfast on the go when you short for time in the mornings!
Made with our Cacao WPI and Bare Greens, they will leave you feeling satiated and full of energy.

See Recipe