With so many diets and a growing consciousness in regard to eating healthy, you might have noticed that the word “protein” gets used a lot in any discourse surrounding these topics. And because it’s probably been a while since you studied the four basic food groups, we’re here to break down what you need to know about protein.
What is Protein?
Protein is one of the three main macronutrients that our bodies need a considerable amount of. When protein is ingested, it’s broken down into amino acids, which serve a variety of purposes, such as the building of muscles, bones, skin, and collagen. Protein also repairs body tissue, aids in the digestion process, and is essential for growth and development.
Daily Intake
The amount of protein someone needs to intake on a daily basis varies from person to person. Not everyone has the exact same body style to engage in the same activity. On average, adults need anywhere from 38 to 131 grams of protein on a daily basis. Consulting a nutritionist can give you an excellent idea of how much you should be intaking. It’s advised that you don’t overdo it with your intake. High amounts of protein are generally only needed by athletes who engage in strenuous activity.
The Best Foods to Get Protein From
There are a wide variety of foods that can provide you with the protein that your body needs. And as you’ll see, they’re friendly and agreeable to every type of diet.
Brand & Legumes – Many people who abstain from meat and partake in a vegetarian or vegan diet can get a lot of proteins from legumes and beans. Black beans, lentils, and lava beans tend to have the highest concentrations.
Chicken – Many people abstain from red meat for health reasons. Chicken can be an excellent alternative, as they have a concentration of 21 grams per three oz serving. (Red and lean meats have roughly 22.)
Seafood – For pescatarians, people who abstain from all types of meat except for fish can get 20 grams of protein from a 3 oz serving of shrimp.
Dairy Products – When it comes to dairy products, some have significantly more protein than some meats. For instance, cottage cheese contains 28 grams per cup, and Greek yogurt has over 24.
Looking for Protein?
One of the best ways to get a fair amount of protein in your diet is by enrolling in a meal delivery service. At Fresh Flamingo, we can offer a variety of dishes that are perfect for any type of diet. To get started on the new healthy you, visit us online or give us a call at 941-600-6551.