Not Just for Athletes, Here's Why Protein Must Be Filled Every Day

JAKARTA - Daily protein needs are one of the important keys to maintaining optimal health and body function.

Protein is needed by everyone because it plays a role in maintaining energy, strength, and helping the body carry out various daily activities.

Director of Sports Performance and Nutrition Education Herbalife, Krissy Ladner, emphasized that protein has a fundamental role in maintaining the body's condition to stay in top condition.

"Protein is not just for athletes or certain purposes. It is a daily nutrient that supports movement, recovery, and long-term vitality," said Ladner.

He explained that protein serves as the main component in repairing and maintaining muscle tissue. Every physical activity - from walking, lifting things, to exercising - can put pressure on muscle fibers. Therefore, the body needs protein to help the recovery process as well as maintain lean muscle mass.

According to him, lean muscle mass is also closely related to metabolic health. Muscle is a tissue that is metabolically active and plays a role in determining how the body uses energy.

Ladner added that the benefits of protein will be more optimal if consumed evenly throughout the day, not just after exercising. The distribution of protein intake at each meal can help maintain energy stability, maintain muscle mass, and control appetite.

"This approach also supports recovery from daily physical activity. Combining protein with carbohydrates after activity helps replenish energy reserves while supporting muscle repair," he said.

He also emphasized the importance of choosing high-quality and diverse protein sources. Low-fat animal proteins such as fish, chicken, eggs, and low-fat dairy products contain essential amino acids that are easily absorbed by the body.

Meanwhile, vegetable proteins such as nuts, soy products, grains, and whole grains also provide additional benefits because they contain fiber and phytonutrients.

In a fast-paced modern life, meeting protein needs is often a challenge, especially for those with busy schedules. For this reason, practical choices such as high-protein snacks, smoothies, or shakes can be a solution to help meet the needs without having to eat in large portions.

Furthermore, Ladner reminds that consistent protein intake is increasingly important as you get older. This is because the body naturally begins to experience a decrease in the ability to maintain muscle mass, especially when entering middle age.

The decrease in muscle mass can have an impact on strength, balance, and mobility. Therefore, consuming enough protein plays a role in maintaining independence and body function in the long term.

"Maintaining muscle mass is not only related to performance, but also daily functions such as climbing stairs, carrying groceries, or maintaining body balance," he explained.

He emphasized that the key to protein consumption is not excessive or extreme restriction, but consistency through simple habits.

"When protein intake is consistent and balanced, protein becomes a powerful tool to support an active and energetic life," concluded Ladner.