When in doubt, 30 grams of protein is always a good start!
We hear how important protein is but what does it actually do for the body?
Proteins are made up of many building blocks, known as amino acids. Our body needs dietary protein to supply amino acids for the growth and maintenance of our cells and tissues.
Why your body needs protein:
Build. Protein is an important building block of bones, muscles, cartilage and skin. In fact, your hair and nails are comprised mostly of protein.
Repair. Your body uses it to build and repair tissue.
Oxygenate. Red blood cells contain a protein compound that carries oxygen throughout the body. This helps supply your entire body with the nutrients it needs.
Digest. About half the dietary protein that you consume each day goes into making enzymes, which aids in digesting food, and making new cells and body chemicals.
Regulate. Protein plays an important role in hormone regulation, especially during the transformation and development of cells during puberty.
How protein can help you stay in shape
Eating high-protein foods has many fitness benefits, including:
Speeding recovery after exercise and/or injury
Reducing muscle loss
Building lean muscle
Helping maintain a healthy weight
Curbing hunger
So needless to say, protein is essential. Take a screenshot of these protein cheat sheet to keep on hand next time you are looking for some protein. I listed below my go- to protein sources and brands:
- Smithfield's pork lion
- Good Culture cottage cheese
- SeaPoint Farms dry roasted edamame
- Jones Dairy Farm Canadian Bacon
- Gilbert's Craft Sausages
- Fage greek yogurt
Comment below your go to protein source!
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