Protein: How much & why is it important?

PROTEIN: How much & why does it matter?

The Benefits of a High-Protein Diet for Physical Therapy Patients

A high-protein diet can play a critical role in recovery, strength building, and overall wellness—especially for those undergoing physical therapy. Protein is essential for repairing tissues, rebuilding muscle, and supporting long-term physical health. Here’s how a high-protein diet can benefit you:

1. Supports Muscle Repair and Recovery

After an injury or surgery, your body requires extra protein to rebuild damaged tissues. High-quality animal-based proteins like beef, bison, chicken, turkey, fish, eggs, and high-quality protein powders provide the amino acids your body needs to recover efficiently.

Our favorite way to consume high-quality protein: Butcher Box. Save $50 on your first box here!

2. Enhances Strength Gains

For patients working on strength and mobility in physical therapy, protein fuels muscle growth. Animal proteins are particularly rich in leucine, a key amino acid that triggers muscle protein synthesis, helping you regain strength faster.

3. Promotes Bone Health

High-protein diets support bone density, which is especially important for individuals recovering from fractures or dealing with conditions like osteoporosis. Dairy products like Greek yogurt and low-fat milk provide not only protein but also calcium and vitamin D, which are vital for strong bones.

4. Aids in Weight Management

Protein helps you feel fuller longer, making it easier to maintain a healthy weight during recovery. Lean animal proteins like fish, eggs, and chicken breast are excellent options for a satisfying, nutrient-dense meal.

5. Boosts Energy and Stamina

Physical therapy can be demanding, and protein helps sustain energy levels throughout your sessions. Incorporating high-protein meals and snacks ensures you’re fueled to perform exercises effectively.

6. Supports Neuromuscular Recovery

Protein is essential for the repair of not just muscles but also connective tissues like tendons and ligaments, which are often targeted in physical therapy. High-quality sources like eggs and beef contain all the essential amino acids needed for comprehensive recovery.

7. Creatine: A Hidden Gem in Animal Proteins

Animal proteins such as red meat and fish naturally contain creatine, a compound that offers additional benefits for physical therapy patients:

•Improved Strength: Creatine supports muscle performance and strength, especially during rehabilitation exercises.

•Faster Recovery: It can reduce muscle soreness and speed up recovery time.

•Enhanced Energy: Creatine helps replenish energy stores, improving endurance for physical therapy sessions.

Looking to supplement your diet with creatine for even greater benefits? Click here to explore our recommended creatine supplement.

How to Incorporate More Protein

• Breakfast: Eggs with low-fat cheese or Greek yogurt with a sprinkle of cinnamon.

• Lunch: Grilled chicken breast or turkey slices with a side of roasted vegetables.

• Dinner: Baked salmon or lean beef with a small sweet potato.

• Snacks: Hard-boiled eggs, cottage cheese, or jerky (look for low-sodium options).

Work with our Nutrition Therapy Practitioner to get customized meal suggestions!

Take the Next Step in Your Recovery

Combining a high-protein diet with your physical therapy program is a powerful way to accelerate healing and achieve long-term strength and health. If you have questions about how to optimize your diet for recovery, ask your therapist during your next session!

Would you like help creating a personalized meal plan to complement your therapy? Let us know!