Protein is another macronutrient like carbohydrate, water and fat. They are required for making enzymes, hormones, blood plasma, and tissue repair, muscle building and even for energy production.
Though there are exceptions, the general rule for regular and intense workout schedules, weight training included, is protein consumption up to 1 gm per pound of body weight. If you do light intensity workouts everyday or moderate workouts, every other day (not daily) then 0.40 grams of protein for every pound of body weight may be had through food intake.
Keep in mind though that if your protein intake requirement is high, you drink enough fluids to back it up. Water is most recommended. Protein metabolism produces nitrogen that needs to be eliminated from the body, thus taxing both the kidneys and the liver. If you are into bodybuilding, strength training or endurance sports and consequently have a high protein intake, make sure you are not getting dehydrated. Your kidneys will require large amounts of water to be able to dilute produced nitrogen. (more…)