Eiwit speelt talloze vitale rollen in het lichaam. Het helpt bij de reparatie en opbouw van weefsels, vergemakkelijkt metabolische reacties, reguleert lichaamsfuncties, draagt bij aan het handhaven van de pH-balans en vochtniveaus, versterkt het immuunsysteem, helpt bij het transport en de opslag van voedingsstoffen en dient als energiereserve wanneer dat nodig is. Kortom, eiwit helpt consumenten hun leven lang en de consumentenbasis is enorm.
Proteins are building blocks for the body’s structure, as part of cells, hormones and enzymes. They are also essential for immune defenses and proteins, such as albumin, which helps transport various substances around the bloodstream. This means that providing adequate amounts of protein can help children to grow and develop in a healthy way.5
The body is constantly breaking down and rebuilding protein, and under normal conditions, these processes are usually in balance. When training hard, as an example, resistance exercise, the body increases protein breakdown in muscles. So, for heavy training, it may be necessary to consume more protein to help the muscles repair themselves and grow.6
During menopause, hormonal changes, particularly a drop in estrogen, can increase the risk of osteoporosis, leading to a higher likelihood of bone fractures and other musculoskeletal issues. These hormonal shifts may also contribute to muscle loss.10
To maintain strength and muscle mass, it’s important for women to combine resistance training with increased protein intake - a particular challenge for those on plant‑based diets, who must ensure adequate and varied protein sources.11
When growing older, it is important to be more proactive and conscious of health, as the body slowly starts to deteriorate. Protein can help maintain muscle mass, bone density, and overall health, thus supporting an active and independent aging process.
1) Bron: Kwantitatief onderzoek voor Tetra Pak van Ipsos voor over gezondheid en voeding 2023 (Brazilië, Verenigde Staten, China, India, Zuid-Korea, Kenia, Zuid-Afrika, Duitsland, Spanje, Verenigd Koninkrijk)
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/functions-of-protein#TOC_TITLE_HDR_3