Protein

By AMIRA BROWN

Injectables, shakes, restrictive diets: it seems as if everywhere you turn you are inundated with new weight loss solutions. While some of these innovations are new and somewhat ridiculous, there are also some that have been around for ages and do have benefits depending on the user.

The vegan diet is one of these dietary plans that has been around since the 1940’s

 While there are some benefits to the vegan diet, it certainly is not for everyone. 

The building block of life relies on nutrients. Protein is an important part of a healthy person’s diet and it is fundamental to consume, however, it has a lot of variation regarding sources and what individuals are looking for it to provide towards your lifestyle. 

There are different sources of protein which include animal-based proteins, plant-based proteins, and supplements. Eating a variety to facilitate your individual process of consuming less salts, sugars, saturated and trans-fats which are all essential for a healthy diet. 

Contrary to popular belief, your diet is personalizable. A lot of health advisors recommend generalized diet plans such as paleo, vegan, keto, and pescatarian. Having a healthy and balanced diet is important towards maintaining your health since it can combat your risk of developing chronic non communicable diseases such as heart disease, cancer, and diabetes according to the World Health Organization. 

Personalizing your protein intake needs is based on various factors such as age, activity level, and health goals like losing weight, muscle gains, and medical conditions.

Chantelle Brown has been a survivor of breast cancer for the past 12 years. Although treatment sectors have ended, the diagnosis has had an everlasting effect on her life. After finishing treatment, Brown discovered that her diet had to be limited due to the fact that many proteins would have a negative impact on her health. “Growing up I always ate a balanced meal rich in greens and shied away from meat based proteins, so the restrictions didn't truly affect me.” 

Janell Maldonaldo is a Washingtonville student who follows the vegetarian dietary regime. “I became vegetarian four years ago, in eighth grade. I always tell people it wasn’t hard for me to start because I’ve never liked meat in the first place.” A lot of people experience side effects when first starting a new dietary plans that eliminates your protein intake; Maldonaldo expressed, “I do experience some side effects from my vegetarianism, such as low iron, headaches, and drowsiness if I don’t eat the proper nutrients each day,... which is why I make sure to eat nutritious foods to get the proper proteins and nutrients in my diet.”

Planning your dietary intake works by assessing your unique goals and needs such as weight loss, muscle building, and health advice.