Proteins have always been considered the number one nutrient for athletes. Today, we live in a world that is grappling with a Pandemic. For athletes, especially, these are testing times as they need to keep their immunity at its peak.

While proteins are important for athletes, the approach to nutrition, on the whole, has changed in the last few months. It is not just about getting stronger but also about ensuring that you are not vulnerable to infections.

The benefits of proteins like bGreen vegetarian protein powder when it comes to muscle development, performance and strength are quite well known. However, now it is even more important to boost your protein consumption to improve your immunity.

Here are five ways in which proteins strengthen immunity to help you understand the role of this nutrient for athletes in 2021.

1. Higher Amino Acid Consumption

When your protein intake improves, the amino acid concentration in the body also increases. Maintaining a higher amount of amino acids in the body is vital for the production of one of the most important antioxidants called Glutathione. This is a natural antioxidant that is produced by the human body to combat pollution, free radical damage, infections and toxins.

2. Better Body Fluid Balance

For the body to perform optimally, the fluid balance should be maintained. Proteins are responsible for regulating the fluid balance in the body. With an increased level of vital proteins like albumin and globulin in the bloodstream, the body’s ability to absorb and retain water improves.

This keeps a steady level of vital fluids, which is also important for your overall athletic performance. You do not have to worry about hitting the fatigue wall prematurely as a result of dehydration. 

3. Improved Transportation of Nutrients

Even though you consume all the necessary nutrients through your diet, it is of no use if they are not transported through the body effectively. First, optimised fluid levels help improve the transportation of these nutrients. Second, proteins combine with many other micronutrients like vitamins and minerals to distribute them to various parts of your body.

Not just nutrients, proteins also help in the transportation of oxygen throughout your body. With a good source of nourishment, your immune health automatically improves.

4. Enhanced Recovery

Excessive training and a rigorous fitness regime often compromise the immune system. This is because the focus shifts to helping your muscles recover from these strenuous training sessions.

The only way to avoid this is to ensure that your muscles get an adequate supply of amino acids that are vital for muscle repair and synthesis. When you include good protein sources in your diet, you get vital amino acids like BCAAs and EAAs that are absorbed directly by your muscles. With an enhanced nutrient supply, you recover faster. This gives your immune system optimal strength to fight against common pathogens and infections.

5. Faster regeneration of Cells

It is common knowledge that proteins are the body’s building blocks. They are necessary for any repair or regeneration to occur in the body. This is true even for the cells of your immune system.

With an adequate supply of proteins, your white blood cells are able to regenerate faster, making your immune response stronger.

In case of any damage caused by pathogens or any other environmental factors, they are also able to repair themselves in time to fight any other disease-causing germ or pathogen.

Optimise your protein consumption with a reliable supplement. However, for maximum benefits, you must ensure that you consume it and a healthy and balanced diet rich in natural sources like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.