If you’ve been feeling unusually tired, struggling to focus, or just not performing at your best, your diet might be missing something essential: protein. Most people think of protein as something for athletes or gym-goers, but it plays a much bigger role in our daily lives. Protein helps keep our energy stable, our mind alert, and our body functioning smoothly. And for many, livestock-based foods like milk, eggs, and meat are the most accessible and complete sources of this important nutrient.
Why Protein Matters for Strength and Efficiency
“Protein provides more than just muscle support. It helps regulate blood sugar levels, keeping energy consistent throughout the day. When your diet lacks protein, your body starts to break down muscle to get what it needs. This can make you feel weak and tired, even if you’re eating enough calories overall,” shares Professor Dr. Ajit Ranade, Poultry Expert and Technical Committee member at CLFMA.
One of the reasons why protein is important is because it is essential for brain function. It provides the amino acids necessary to produce neurotransmitters—chemicals that enhance focus, memory, and mood. Without sufficient protein, you may feel foggy, distracted, or unmotivated. A study found that higher protein intake supports improved cognitive performance, especially in memory and attention.
The Role of Livestock in Human Nutrition
In many parts of the world, livestock products such as milk, eggs, and meat are major sources of high-quality protein. These foods contain all essential amino acids the body needs, making them more complete compared to most plant-based options.
Also Read: Struggling To Match Protein Intake As A Vegetarian? Try These Plant-Based Protein Foods
Livestock products are also rich in other nutrients that support brain and energy function, like vitamin B12, iron, and zinc, which are often lacking in diets that are low in animal-sourced foods. Including even modest amounts of these in the daily diet can help prevent fatigue, improve immunity, and support overall development, especially in children, adolescents, and older adults.
Are You Getting Enough Protein?
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India recommends about 0.8 to 1 gram of protein per kilogram of body weight daily for healthy adults. However, studies show that many people in India fall short, especially in rural and low-income communities. Common signs of protein deficiency include constant tiredness, frequent hunger, thinning hair, and trouble focusing.
Also Read: Are Protein Bars Really That Healthy?
Conclusion
Protein is not a luxury, but it’s a daily necessity. It powers our body, sharpens our mind, and keeps us resilient. Livestock-based foods are among the most efficient and reliable ways to meet our daily protein needs. Whether it’s through a glass of milk, egg, or a serving of lean meat, adding animal-sourced protein to your meals can make a real difference to how you feel and function every day.