Healthy living is closely linked to a lifestyle that includes regular physical activity paired with wise food choices
Good nutrition and exercise work better to slow down health issues when both are part of your routine. The right intake of nutrients such as vitamins, minerals, and protein are essential for normal body functions.
Eating a variety of whole foods is recommended, yet it is not always easy to have a balanced diet. Calcium, vitamin C, vitamin D and protein are all key nutrients and are essential for the maintenance of good muscle, bone and joint health.
We can embrace life by acknowledging and embracing the changes of our bodies and perspectives on life. Being armed with knowledge of what supports good health, and being open to discover new approaches and new habits can help you make the most out of life.
Protein and Its Role in Healthy Living
After water, our body is mostly composed of proteins. Indeed, proteins are the main component of cells and are essential to life.
Proteins have complex structures: they are made up of many smaller units called amino acids. These are linked together in a chemical bond forming a long chain. Some of these amino acids are called ‘essential,’ meaning they are crucial for life but cannot be produced by the human body and must be gained through one’s diet.
Protein generally makes up 10% to 15% of the body’s energy needs. Our body is not able to store amino acids in the same way it can carbohydrates and fats, so we need a daily intake of amino acids through protein in our diets to make new protein.
The role of Vitamins & Minerals in Healthy Living
- Magnesium - An invaluable ally against tiredness and fatigue.
- Potassium - It helps sustain the normal muscle function and is particularly recommended if you take regular exercise.
- Zinc - Powerful element that supports protection of cells from oxidative stress.
- Selenium - Besides being renowned for its antioxidant properties, which protect cells from damage, selenium contributes to muscle function.
- Iron, Vitamin C, Riboflavin (Vitamin B2), Niacin, Vitamin B6, Folic Acid, Vitamin B12, Pantothenic acid - They contribute to the normal energy-yielding metabolism and help fight fatigue and weariness.
- Calcium - A main constituent of our skeleton, calcium supplementation can positively impact bone health, particularly in individuals with sub-optimal intake.
- Phosphorus - It is responsible, among other things, of healthy bone formation.
