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The importance of proteins in your diet

April 29, 2026
INSIGHT
The importance of proteins in your diet

Proteins are the building blocks of the body: they are part of muscles, bones, skin, hair, nails and many hormones and enzymes.

Without them, the body cannot grow, repair, or stay strong.

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What are proteins?

They are molecules made up of amino acids, some of which the body cannot produce and must be obtained through food (essential amino acids).

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Sources of protein in the diet

Animals: meat, fish, eggs, milk and derivatives (yogurt, cheese).

Vegetables: legumes (lentils, chickpeas, soybeans), nuts, seeds, whole grains, tofu, or tempeh

The ideal is to combine plant and animal sources to achieve a complete supply.

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Main functions

  • They form muscles, tissues and organs.
  • They are involved in cell repair.
  • They are involved in the production of enzymes, hormones and defenses.
  • They contribute to satiety and weight control.

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How much protein do I need?

The recommended protein intake depends on your lifestyle, age and specific situation.

Below is a rough guide:

  • Sedentary adult: 0.8 — 1.0 g/kg body weight → Example for 60 kg: 48 — 60 g
  • ‍Active person: 1.2 — 1.6 g/kg → 72 — 96 g
  • ‍Athlete or intense workout: 1.6 — 2.0 g/kg → 96 — 120 g
  • ‍Perimenopausal women: 1.2 — 1.5 g/kg → 72 — 90 g
  • ‍Elderly people (+65 years old): 1.2 — 1.4 g/kg → 72 — 84 g

Remember that 100 g of chicken breast provide about 22 g of protein, 2 eggs about 14 g, and 100 g of cooked lentils about 9 g.

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Protein and Perimenopause

During this stage, the female body undergoes hormonal changes that favor the loss of muscle and bone mass.

Slightly increasing protein intake (1.2—1.5 g/kg/day), along with strength exercise and sufficient calcium and vitamin D, helps maintain muscle mass, metabolism and bone health.

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Top protein foods (per 100 g)

Chicken breast: 22 g

Cooked contact lenses: 9 g

Tuna: 23 g

Eggs: 12 g

Fresh cheese: 11 g

Tofu: 10 g

Boiled chickpeas: 8 g

Natural Greek yogurt: 9 g

Almonds: 21 g

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Your Body Composition and Our Solutions

In our radiological medical center we have a DEXA scanner that allows you to accurately measure your body composition: fat percentage, lean mass and bone density.

This analysis helps you customize your protein intake based on your health and performance goals.