The most common misconception about protein supplements is that you have to be a bodybuilder or exercise fanatic to need one. But that belief is far from true. See, even if you don’t work out regularly, amping up your daily protein intake can be beneficial. 

via Photograph Casey Zhang for The Nue Co.

The easiest way to visualize the role of protein in the body is to describe it as a series of building blocks that make up everything we see in our external appearance. Skin,  muscles, nails, and hair—it’s all protein. Internally, our blood, bones, enzymes, hormones, and even brain cells are part protein, too. 

Not getting enough of the stuff can manifest itself in a few ways: You might find yourself getting sick more frequently (antibodies are specialized protein configurations that help fight unwanted germs, bacteria, and fungi). Or maybe you’ll just feel sleepy (protein provides the body with fuel). Brittle nails and thinning hair are also common symptoms of mild deficiency, as is red, flaky skin. Find yourself craving sugar late in the afternoon? Upping the amount of protein in your lunch could help prevent unnecessary bingeing.

via ©The Nue Co.

Below, you’ll find our favorite everyday recipe for a drink we’ve named Functional Protein. Each serving contains the same amount of protein as two eggs, plus more if you include the almond butter and oat milk. It's the perfect nutritionally-dense breakfast, pre or post-workout refreshment, or snack in-between meals. You could serve it warm if you wanted, but we prefer it cold.

Serves 1

- 1 cup oat milk (cold)

- 1 tbsp The Nue Co. PLANT PROTEIN

- 1 tbsp almond butter

- 1 tsp vanilla extra

- To boost (optional): 1 tbsp coconut butter

Directions: Combine all ingredients in a blender. Blitz together for 30 seconds until bubbles appear. Drink.