Some Americans just can’t seem to find a balance or do all in moderation. When it comes to protein, I feel most people don’t eat an adequate amount or on the other hand, over indulge because their trainers told them to. Well, when it comes to protein – we need about 20 grams at each meal and then an additional 10 grams 2-3 times a day in a snack. The protein at your meals needs to be about the size of your palm, not you spouses or parent’s palm, YOUR palm.
If you don’t have enough protein in your diet, symptoms can occur; like blood sugar imbalance, loss of hair, brittle nails, dry skin, and brain fog. I know that sounds pretty bad to some people and at the same time pretty vague – but adequate amounts of protein provides us with the adequate amount of amino acids our bodies need to help build every cell in our bodies, including our BRAINS. In addition, protein provides us an ample amount of minerals like zinc/iron and vitamins such as the b-12.
So – add eggs, cheese, cottage cheese, yogurt, peas, edamame, quinoa, oatmeal, almonds, pumpkin seeds, lentils, black beans, soy beans, and avocado to your daily routine of meat, chicken, pork, and seafood.
Last but not least, if the protein you eat isn’t immediately utilized – it is stored as fat! So, CAUTION to those that think we need 150 + grams a day. A WELL as, a “meat” portion/serving size is 4 oz not an 8 oz filet or whole sea bass. When you are at the store, ask you “meat” specialist to go ahead and slice/cut/weigh out a 4 oz portion for you so now you can incorporate that directly into your healthy meal. Happy proteining!
