Proteins are important building blocks for your body. Do you want to know what proteins do for your body and how you get enough of them?
1. How much protein do I need? As an adult you need about 0.8 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight per day. Do you weigh 70 kilos? Then you need about 56 grams of protein per day. The advice is to eat proteins throughout the day.
2. What are proteins important for?
Proteins support your muscles and ensure the maintenance and growth of your muscles. In addition, they are involved in many functions in our body. They are also important for building up your bone tissue and keeping your bones in shape. They are also necessary for the transport of substances in the blood and our body cells. In short, an indispensable nutrient.
3. Which ingredient can I eat best to get protein?
Almost all foods contain protein. It occurs in both plant and animal products. The protein quality differs per product. That quality depends on how well the body can digest it and on the amount of essential amino acids. Proteins are made up of amino acids, our body needs a total of about 20 different amino acids. Some amino acids cannot be made by our body, so we have to get them from our diet; these are the essential amino acids.
4. What about animal and vegetable proteins?
Meat and dairy are very good sources of animal protein, but did you know that soy is also an excellent source of vegetable protein? Soy contains all essential amino acids. Even if you want to eat more plant-based or completely plant-based, you can get your proteins just as easily.
5. Is it best for me to choose vegetable proteins or animal proteins?
The nutritional value of both types of protein is equally good. Soy products, such as those from Alpro, generally contain less saturated fats and more unsaturated fats (known as 'the good fats') than products of animal origin. In addition, they usually contain more fiber. Soy is not only good for you*, it's better for the planet**. Two times less land is used for the production of Alpro soy, 4 times less water and the CO2 emissions from soybean production are even 2.5 times less than from milk production.
A good reason to go plant-based more often. Soy is perfect as a kickstarter for breakfast, but it is also a tasty addition to your lunch or as a snack after exercise. Do you want to know more about soy? View the information page of Alpro.
Ellen Hoog also opts for soy products
Soy fits well in a healthy and active lifestyle. Ellen Hoog also likes to eat plant-based with Alpro products. Like Ellen Hoog, do you want to start your day with a plant-based breakfast to kickstart your day? Below the video you will find a delicious breakfast recipe for inspiration.
Orange oatmeal breakfast recipe 
This article is a collaboration with Alpro.
* Plant-based foods are generally low in saturated fats. Reducing the consumption of saturated fat contributes to the maintenance of normal blood cholesterol levels. A varied and balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle are important for good health.
** Ecofys University of Twente 2015
