Are you eating enough protein?
You ideally want to be shooting for 100-120g of protein per day is a great goal to set for yourself. Even if you are not one who is trying to "bulk up", protein is something that everyone needs to eat on a daily basis!
At its most basic function, protein triggers your "full" hormone. So without enough protein at each meal, you might feel like you are just not eating enough.
Protein is the body's source of amino acids that support your muscles and tissues. The body only produces 13 of the 22 amino acids The remaining 9 are considered essential amino acids (aka you must get them from food!) This is why variety is important (but it also helps to keep you from getting bored eating the same thing over and over).
Quantity is important since you do want to make sure you are getting enough protein, but also be sure to check the quality of your protein too! Think organic, grass-fed, complete sources of protein as often as you can to see all of the amazing benefits.
What do I mean by the benefits of eating enough protein?
Increases Fullness
Fewer cravings
Boosts energy (no mid-day slump)
Supports your metabolism
Builds muscles
Aids in Blood sugar balance & insulin sensitivity
...and so much more!!
Here are 3 simple tips to help you ensure you have enough protein at each meal
1. Build your meal around a 3-5 oz piece of protein (chicken, steak, shrimp, lamb etc).
2. Adopt an addition mindset & add in additional sources of protein (hemp seeds, pumpkin seeds, nut butter, bone broth, and cottage cheese are all ways to add in more protein)
3. Plan some protein snacks. Having quality protein bars, greek yogurt with berries, or chomp sticks available to help stretch you between meals also goes towards your daily intake.
So next time you are putting together your meal plans for the week or maybe just your upcoming dinner, be sure to shoot for at least 30 grams of protein for that meal to help you reach your daily goals!
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