natural immunity boosters

1. What is the role of Whey Protein supplements in building immunity? Proteins make up the primary framework of our cells. That’s true for most of the cells in your body including the ones that make up a robust immune system. There’s no surprise that a well-balanced diet with protein, vitamins, and essential amino acids is absolutely mandatory for a well-functioning, healthy, human body with an active, response-ready immune system. Whey protein powders are a proven source of both protein and amino acids. That’s why they are credited with helping repair and maintain the immune system cell structure. As a complete protein source, whey protein is heavy on the pros in every pro & cons list, complete with Lactoferrin and immunoglobulins that are known to have immunity-enhancing qualities. Immunity-boosting superfoods, on the other hand, fire up the immune system by providing immunity supporting vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and a larger array of nutrients. Let’s dive deeper, shall we? DEFICIENCIES IN HIDING - Let’s explore hidden hunger Signs of hidden hunger, aka micronutrient deficiencies, do not show up as the usual signs of hunger. The symptoms can range from fatigue, loss of appetite, cognitive issues, confusion, memory loss, malaise, low immunity, productivity... the list goes on. It’s basically when your body is not functioning at its best due to deficiencies in micronutrients caused by a limited diet. Even mild deficiencies can greatly affect a person’s physical and mental well-being. Here’s a shocking fact - hidden hunger affects 2 billion individuals worldwide. That’s one in three people, globally. It’s a more widespread and common issue than we’d like to think. While it’s true that rates of hidden hunger are more significant in lower to middle-income countries, it's still very much prevalent in high-income countries as well. This is largely due to modern lifestyles and diets that mostly consist of macronutrients like fats and carbohydrates. This dietary shift can be seen in developing countries as well where people are

2. moving from more traditional, locally-sourced food products to highly processed, energy-dense, and micronutrient-poor food and drinks. This also leads to obesity and chronic diet-related illnesses. Left unchecked, hidden hunger can be the silent enemy wreaking havoc on your immune system. Unchecked hidden hunger can cause long-term effects While all human beings require a healthy diet to fight hidden hunger, there are groups that are proven to be more susceptible to the long-term effects of hidden hunger. Namely, children and pregnant women. In children, a micronutrient deficiency (most commonly iodine, zinc, vitamin A) can lead to problems with cognitive development, stunted growth, and increased risk of infections. This can often lead to lifelong health problems. The nutritional status of a woman during conception and pregnancy can affect fetal growth and development. Having a strong immune system is also essential to keep the mother and child protected during the course of the pregnancy. PROTEIN: THE BUILDING BLOCKS OF GOOD IMMUNITY The bottom line is that our bodies require an array of macro and micronutrients to sustain healthy bodily functions. One of the most important nutrients of them all is protein. Protein is what helps the body produce immunoglobulins, more commonly known as antibodies, which are your very own personal army against viral and bacterial infections. An important component of antibodies is T-Cells, and protein is known to power up their function in our bodies. This is our first line of defense against foreign, disease-causing bacteria and viruses. Protein deficiencies often come alongside amino acid deficiencies as well. That is because amino acids are the very building blocks of protein. The human body requires 9 essential amino acids from dietary sources because the body can not produce them on its own. All of them play important roles in development and repair, which is why their absence can be felt by your immune system. Natural essential amino acids can be found in sources of protein such as eggs, meat, and poultry. WHEY PROTEIN: THE COMPLETE PROTEIN SOURCE FOR IMMUNITY The reason why whey protein is popularly considered a complete protein source is because it contains all the 9 essential amino acids that the body can’t manufacture on its own. Not only does whey protein help you meet your protein intake requirements for muscle growth, healing, and repair, it also aids in the growth of new immune cells. Other benefits include improved cognitive function, cholesterol control, anti- inflammatory, anti-diabetic properties, and so on. Whey protein also has a potent antioxidant activity because it is also rich in cysteine and methionine. This high concentration of amino acids causes the immune function to enhance through intracellular conversion to glutathione (GSH). Glutathione protects the cells against free radical damage, pollution, toxins, and infection. When compared to other protein sources, whey has the unique capacity to bolster glutathione levels in the body that leads to improvement in your overall health condition. However, most whey protein powders don’t source their ingredients ethically. You may find them adulterated with fillers, additives, sugars, hormones, and worse. It is all the more important to find a quality protein and nutrition partner that takes your health just as seriously as you. Terra Origin 100%-Grass Fed Whey Protein offers a high protein intake without any of the harmful fillers and preservatives. Completely organic, hormone-free, antibiotic-free, non-GMO, rich in Omega-3 and Omega-6, and a complete package with all the 9 essential amino acids. PLANT PROTEIN - THE INCOMPLETE PROTEIN SOURCE If you are someone with dietary restrictions like lactose intolerance or are a practicing vegetarian or vegan, you have to keep in mind that many sources of plant-based protein are considered nutritionally incomplete. This is because they often lack one or more of the 9 essential amino acids required by the body. Thankfully, Terra Origin Organic Plant Protein qualifies as a complete protein source because of its perfectly blended formula that combines rice, pea, hemp, and pumpkin to give you all the essential plant-based amino acids with 18 grams of protein per serving. This gives you an entirely plant-based, complete protein source that is clean and green.

3. THE TAKEAWAY Whey protein powders and comprehensive plant-based protein powders are amazing and natural aids in protecting, building, and improving your immune system. Remember that they form the essential building blocks of your immunity and act as fuel for healthy immune responses in the body.