Protein: Why I keep talking about it.

If you’ve had a session with me, you’ve probably heard me ask about your diet and more specifically… your protein intake!

I know it can seem like an unusual topic during a kinesiology session but there’s a very good reason for it.

As a kinesiologist, I look at the body as a whole. We can work on emotional stress, trauma, nervous system regulation and energy balance but if your body doesn’t have the nutrients it needs to repair and function, it can be like trying to build a house without enough bricks.

So, why is protein so important?

Protein is found in every single cell of your body. It helps repair tissues, supports your immune system, creates hormones and enzymes and is essential for healthy muscles, skin, hair and organs.

It’s also incredibly important for your brain. Many of the neurotransmitters involved in mood, focus, motivation and sleep are made from amino acids (The building blocks of protein). Without enough protein, your body may struggle to produce these important chemicals as efficiently as it could.

What Are Amino Acids?

Think of protein as a necklace. The necklace is the protein, and each bead is an amino acid.

When you eat protein, your body breaks it down into amino acids. These amino acids are then used to repair tissues, create hormones and enzymes, support your immune system and produce neurotransmitters that help your brain and nervous system function.

There are 20 amino acids that your body uses.

• 11 are called non-essential amino acids because your body can make them.

• 9 are called essential amino acids because your body cannot make them and you must obtain them through the foods you eat.

  
  

These essential amino acids are vital because they provide the building blocks your body needs for normal growth, repair and maintenance.

What Is a Complete Protein?

A complete protein contains all nine essential amino acids in the right amounts for your body to use effectively.

Examples of complete proteins include:

• Eggs

• Fish

• Chicken

• Lean beef and lamb

• Dairy products

• Tofu

• Tempeh

• Edamame

Other foods such as beans, lentils, nuts, seeds and whole grains are still wonderful sources of protein but some are lower in one or more essential amino acids.

The great news is that by eating a variety of plant-based protein sources throughout the day, your body can still obtain all the essential amino acids it needs. You don’t need to combine them all in the same meal.

Why Does This Matter?

When I ask clients about protein, I’m not just thinking about how much protein they’re eating.

I’m thinking about whether their body is receiving the building blocks it needs to:

✨ Repair tissues

✨ Support muscles

✨ Produce hormones and enzymes

✨ Create neurotransmitters

✨ Support the immune system

✨ Maintain healthy cells throughout the body

As a kinesiologist, I often say that we can’t expect the body to heal without giving it the building blocks it needs.

Emotional healing, nervous system regulation and physical repair all require energy and nutrients. While protein isn’t the answer to every health concern, it is one of the foundations that supports your body’s natural ability to repair, adapt and function.

Protein and Blood Sugar

One of the biggest reasons I encourage clients to include protein with meals is because it helps support more stable blood sugar levels.

When we rely mostly on refined carbohydrates or sugary foods, our blood sugar can rise quickly before dropping again.

This can leave us feeling:

• Tired

• Hungry soon after eating

• Irritable

• Foggy

• Low in energy

Including protein alongside your meals can help you feel fuller for longer and support more sustained energy throughout the day.

Protein and Stress

When we’re under stress, our bodies require more resources.

Whether you’re recovering from emotional stress, illness, injury or simply navigating a busy season of life, your body is constantly repairing and adapting.

Protein provides many of the raw materials needed for these normal processes.

While protein won’t remove stress, giving your body the nutrients it needs creates a stronger foundation for healing and wellbeing.

How Much Protein Do We Need?

Everyone’s needs are different depending on age, activity levels and health.

As a general guide:

• Most adults need around 0.8 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight each day.

• Active people, older adults, or those recovering from illness or injury may benefit from higher amounts, depending on their individual circumstances.

If you’re unsure what is right for you, speak with your doctor or an Accredited Practising Dietitian.

Fleurieu Kinesiology …

At Fleurieu Kinesiology, I don’t just look at symptoms.

I look at the whole person.

Your emotions matter.

Your nervous system matters.

Your lifestyle matters.

And your nutrition matters too.

Protein isn’t about chasing perfection.

It’s about giving your body the building blocks it needs to repair, adapt and thrive.

So next time I ask about your protein intake during a session…You’ll know why.

This blog is intended for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for personalised medical or dietary advice.