Protein

Most people think of meat when we talk about consuming adequate amounts of protein. Meat does provide a good source of protein, and we all need protein in our diets, but there are also other options available to keep the protein levels up.

Why is Protein Important?

Protein is a building block of many parts of our bodies: muscle tissue, hair, skin, nails, blood, hormones and enzymes to name a few. Anytime you exercise, you break down muscle tissue, which needs to be rebuilt.

Dietary protein helps with that process. Additionally, muscle mass powers the body’s metabolism, or the rate at which your body burns calories for energy. Increasing dietary protein can help build lean muscle mass and thereby promote an increase in metabolic rate, which can lead to greater fat burning and fat loss.

Protein is composed of amino acids. The body cannot store amino acids or protein, so we need to get this nutrient from the diet on a regular basis for ongoing health and body structure. Pregnant and nursing women require extra protein in their diets to support the growth and nourishment of their babies. Adolescents also need about as much protein as full-grown adults.

Protein Sources

Protein is readily available from animal sources, including meat, eggs and, to a lesser extent, dairy products. But some people do not like animal protein or the cardiovascular risks associated with the consumption of meat and dairy products. Fortunately, protein is also found in foods such as legumes (peas, beans, peanuts, etc.), seeds, unrefined grains and certain vegetables. It is even found in some algae.

Nature’s Sunshine offers a tasty, nutritious choice for getting more protein into your diet without compromise. Love and Peas is a blend of pea protein powder from split yellow peas with a host of other nourishing whole foods. Pea protein offers a natural, plant-based protein source. It also supports the urinary system and helps to maintain blood pressure levels already within the normal range.

Nature's Sunshine Love and Peas contains no common allergens, dairy, lactose or gluten. It is Vegan-Certified. Each serving of Love and Peas provides 20 grams of pea protein isolate, 1 gram prebiotic fiber (short-chain fructo-oligosaccharides) and 3 grams total fiber in a blend of naturally occurring amino acids, antioxidants, vitamins and minerals, plus beneficial fats from flax seed and borage oil. Love and Peas has a wonderful vanilla flavor.