Saturday, July 2, 2011

Healthy Protein Options

Running in the sun
 I just finished a great morning of working out and I'm trying to decide what to eat for lunch. :)

This might be something that comes easy to a lot of us, but I find it can be tough to make sure I get in enough protein in a day. So #1, I always try to be prepared and cook in bulk whenever possible, but #2, it helps to know my options. Below are some good protein sources that will keep you/or help you in your quest for a lean body. You should be getting 6 servings of protein each day. Protein mostly comes from animals, but you can also get protein from dairy sources and vegetables and grains as well. Feel free to add comments on ways you get your protein, I would love to hear!

Grains and Veggies:
  • Beans of all kinds (low sodium preferably)
  • Chickpeas (this is what Hummus is made from)
  • Lentils 
  • Quinoa (this is like rice, but actually has a lot of great protein)
  • Natural nut butters (almond, cashew peanut, hazelnut)
  • Non-dairy beverages (fat-free almond, coconut, rice, or soy milk)
  • Unsalted raw nuts and seeds
  • Tempeh and Tofu
Dairy:
  • Whey protein (protein shakes are a must for me!)
  • Dairy
    • Fat-free plain greek yogurt (great with berries and fruit)
    • Kefir 
    • Low-fat cottage cheese
    • Low-fat mozzarella string cheese
Meat:
  • Red Meat
    • Beef tenderloin
    • Bison
    • Sirloin
  • White Meat
    • Chicken
    • Pork Tenderloin
    • Eggs or egg whites (I usually HB a dozen or so and have them throughout the week)
    • Turkey
  • Seafood
    • Canned tuna, packed in water (not oil)
    • Canned Salmon, packed in water
    • Fresh Fish (Cod, tilapia, Salmon, tuna, etc)
    • Scallops
    • Shrimp
    • Mussels
About 1/3 of your diet should consist of protein. Also, in order to keep your blood sugar low combine protein and complex carbohydrates for every meal!
Happy 4th of July weekend everyone! 

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