If the appropriate daily amounts are consumed according to our individual needs, we can enjoy the following benefits of protein:
- Muscle repair and growth: promotes the repair and growth of muscle tissue, which is especially important after exercise.
- Cell maintenance and growth: it is essential for the formation and repair of cells and tissues in the body.
- Production of enzymes and hormones: it is involved in the synthesis of enzymes and hormones that regulate many bodily functions.
- Immune system support: strengthens the immune system by forming antibodies that fight infections.
- Appetite control and weight management: provides a prolonged feeling of fullness, helping to control appetite and support weight management.
- Active metabolism: increases calorie expenditure due to its thermic effect, contributing to a more active metabolism.
- Nutrient transport: helps transport nutrients and other molecules throughout the body.
- Maintenance of bone health: contributes to bone health by forming part of the structure of bones and connective tissues.
- Energy in extreme situations: although this is not its primary function, it can be used as an energy source when carbohydrates and fats are unavailable.
In summary, protein is an essential nutrient that plays vital roles in the repair, growth and maintenance of body structures, as well as in regulating metabolic processes and supporting overall health.
In addition, the collagen fragments released can cause the immune system to recognize the body's own collagen as a potentially harmful component and actively attack it.
This perpetuates the cycle of the body's own collagen breakdown, increased inflammation and joint pain, and is also directly associated with the high incidence of osteoarthritis and other autoimmune diseases in athletes.
In this context, the long-term intake of pure collagen through nutritional supplements has been shown to be highly beneficial for joint care, helping to replenish the collagen broken down during exercise routines.