Protein is the powerhouse macronutrient essential of our overall health and well-being. It builds, repairs and replenishes tissues, cartilage, bones, organs, muscles, skin, hair and nails. People turn to protein because it helps burn fat and therefore, aids in weight loss. But your body doesn’t store protein, so there is no reserve from which to draw upon when your protein is low and you’re feeling sluggish. In short, you need protein – and a lot of it. Following are some ways to get quality protein in your daily diet to help you achieve optimum health and weight loss goals:
- Eat Sea Food
Fish is significantly lower in saturated fats than meat. Salmon and halibut are particularly good choices, but people on the go will be glad to hear that canned tuna is equally full of protein. Increase your intake of fish several times a week to help boost your protein levels.
- Go for Dairy products
While many duets fads discourage dairy products but milk, cheese and yogurt are excellent sources of protein that also contain Vitamin D, which is essential for bone density. But make you reach for the reduced, low or no-fat yogurt, not the brands laden with fake fruit or other ingredients. Skim milk is best.
- Packed Proteins
Grocery and convenience stores are well-stocked with colorfully packaged protein bars that promise great results and appeal to consumers who live hectic lifestyles but still want to eat a healthy diet. But many of these so-called protein bars won’t deliver the protein punch they claim, considering the amount of sugar they contain. Look carefully at the list of ingredients: If a protein bar only includes a few ingredients, like whey or almonds, it’s probably great. But if it has a long list of ingredients, put it back.
- Crack An Egg
Eggs are one of the richest – and cheapest – sources of protein. Plus, they take little time to prepare, so there’s no real excuse for not adding them to your daily diet. Boil them, scramble them, add a little all-natural salsa or spices – you can vary your egg intake to make them interesting enough to eat daily.
- Powders
Protein powders are meant to supplement your protein, and your caloric intake, so they are frequently favored by bodybuilders who are trying to add muscle. They should never be considered as a meal replacement or as a sole source of protein, but they can add value as a snack, after a workout or before bedtime. Do your research before selecting an all-natural protein powder.
- Lean Meat
Chicken breast have the market cornered as far as hardcore dieters are concerned. But pork, turkey and lean cuts of beef are also good sources of protein. A few pieces of lean jerky also make a great mid-day snack.
- Eat Your Veggies
No matter what the season is, there are plenty of vegetables you need to incorporate into your diet to get core protein. Broccoli, potatoes (leave the skin on), brussel sprouts, avocado, asparagus and turnips, as well as a host of other nutrient-rich vegetables should all be added to your shopping list. Explore new and exciting ways to prepare your favorite veggies to make your meals more interesting.
A diet that includes more proteins than carbohydrates will result in better health, stronger muscles and more bone density. There are numerous ways to add more protein to your daily meals, so no excuses.