PROTEIN is a vital part of every diet as it fuels energy. It is an important macronutrient that every cell in the body requires. The need to maintain good health while boosting the body's natural defences should be the focus of our dietary habits.
A study conducted by the Ministry of Health highlights that average protein intake among Malaysians, at 57g, is lower than the recommended intake by the World Health Organisation which is 83g per day.
Protein deficiency can increase the risk of skin, hair and nail problems, bone fractures, loss of muscle and infection.
The good news is that more people are now aware of the importance of a healthy lifestyle.
The Amway Global Consumer Survey conducted among 1,000 Malaysians, highlights that many are making positive changes after the pandemic, such as diet (53 per cent), fitness routines (55 per cent), multivitamins or other supplements (56 per cent) and personal care (45 per cent).
The findings reflect that Malaysians are being careful about what they consume in an effort to stay healthy and have a safe lifestyle, more so following the pandemic.
Dietitian Indra Balaratnam says people have begun to live beyond the pandemic by self-learning nutrient knowledge as they realise that maintaining a healthy lifestyle is important.
"Protein is crucial to good health. The benefits are linked together towards body development, metabolism, repair, fluid balance, and immune health," explains Indra.
In order to have sufficient intake of protein, we can easily consume food such as meat, fish, eggs, dairy products, seeds, nuts and beans.
Although Malaysians are shifting their living habits towards a more mindful lifestyle, they seem to be struggling to balance their intake of nutrients.
Amway Malaysia, Singapore and Brunei managing director, Mike Duong says we should always identify our body's needs while practising a healthy lifestyle to ensure we are getting the right nutrients.
Amway is currently conducting a campaign where it's collaborating with healthcare professionals, dieticians and social influencers to share their expertise and insight on encouraging right consumption of protein per day.
Amway will also be hosting a virtual session known as "Start Your Day Right With A Healthier Drink" in Jan next year. The date will be announced on Amway Malaysia's social media.
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