Importance of protein consumption and a healthy lifestyle
KUALA LUMPUR, 17 DECEMBER 2021 – Given the current situation, it is very crucial to make living consciously a way of life by observing a balanced diet and exercise in an effort to have a healthy body and mind. There is a need to look at ways to cope with the current situation and be more vigilant in how we live our lives. Hence, Amway Malaysia has embarked on empowering Malaysians to make balanced lifestyle a priority through a webinar.
“It is pertinent to look after ourselves in an effort to maintain good health while we are coping with the situation. As we are constantly faced with the emergence of new variants, we should place great emphasis on observing our health by monitoring our diet and practising an active lifestyle,” commented Dr. Sareena Hanim Hamzah, Senior Lecturer and Deputy Director for research at Centre for Sport and Exercise Sciences, Universiti Malaya.
“While practising a well-balanced lifestyle, we should consistently observe our diet habits to provide sufficient energy and nutrients for the body and avoid overeating. In order to remain active, it is also advisable to do at least 150 – 300 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic physical activity throughout the week for substantial health benefits. This also helps pump up endorphins and reduce stress. Hence, we can maintain a balanced lifestyle,” she added.
“Healthy diet is also important in supporting our immune system. A good healthy diet with rich nutrition can reduce the likelihood of developing other health issues, such as obesity, heart disease or diabetes,” added Indra Balaratnam, a dietitian.
Many people are pursuing a healthier lifestyle by adding protein to their diet. There are various sources of protein such as the natural consumption of protein food, protein supplements and meal replacements. Protein has been associated with muscle gain, muscle recovery or weight loss.
“Protein is a macronutrient to our body and is broken down into amino acids. It is important for growth, maintenance of body tissues, metabolic regulation which helps in maintaining a healthy weight, curbing hunger and speeding muscle recovery. You can find the natural protein goodness from meat, fish, egg, tofu, beans and dairy products,” said Indra Balaratnam.
Indra further explained that protein also plays a role in increasing neurotransmitters that communicate with our brain to make us feel awake and alert. Hence, she explains that including protein-rich choices as part of our healthy, balanced breakfast can help us feel energized and more satisfyingly nourished.
While on the subject of starting the day right, Amway Malaysia recently conducted a social media poll asking Malaysians about their favourite breakfast beverages. It garnered responses from 1000 respondents. According to the poll result, Malaysians prefer coffee, tea and protein shakes as their morning beverages.
“Coffee and tea are always on the list as these beverages have been part of our diet but many are not aware of the nutritional value. However, it is very interesting to see Malaysians consuming protein shakes for morning beverages in an effort to pursue a healthier lifestyle,” added Indra.
“You should have a healthy and balanced diet plan by including protein in every meal besides carbohydrate and other nutrients. Protein shakes can work as a complement to other dietary elements. Constant exercise coupled with healthy consumption habits can lead to a balanced lifestyle,” concluded Dr Sareena.
The guests deliberated on the importance of a balanced lifestyle while coping with the current situation, the benefits of protein consumption and Malaysians’ favourite beverage. This was through a webinar titled, “Start Your Day Right With A Nutritious Drink” which was conducted by Amway Malaysia. The session was moderated by Che Puan Sarimah Ibrahim, an Irish Malaysian TV host and award-winning emcee. The panelists were Indra Balaratnam, a consultant dietitian and Dr Sareena Hanim Hamzah, a Senior Lecturer and Deputy Director for research at Centre for Sport and Exercise Sciences, Universiti Malaya.
As part of the campaign to empower the general public on the importance of a balanced lifestyle and protein intake for overall health, Amway Malaysia collaborated with healthcare experts and dietitians. The webinar session is available for the public and can be accessed on Amway Malaysia’s Facebook page. For more information, please visit https://www.amway.my/.
