The 411 on Protein

Ally Kuehn Kuehnhealth

About the Author: My name is Ally Kuehn. I am a 21 year old, senior at Ohio University majoring in Applied Nutrition and Dietetics. I am preparing myself to graduate in May 2017. My goals are to become happy and healthier person through nutrition, health and wellness.   Instagram: Kuehnhealth Website: Click Here to see KuehnHealth Blog

Why Protein?

Protein is an essential nutrient that everyone needs in their diet. No if, and’s, or buts about it, because its such an important energy source for your body! It’s involved in muscle, hormone, blood, skin and bone development. Fun fact, hair and nails are mostly made up of protein! How much protein do we need to consume daily? According to the DRI (Dietary Reference Intake), 0.8 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight, or 0.36 grams per pound. For an average male who is sedentary  this calculates to about 56 grams per and 46 grams per day for the average sedentary woman.

I personally am adopting a more plant based lifestyle. In the beginning stages of transitioning, I was personally so closed minded. My thoughts were “I couldn’t eat meat, welp there goes all my good protein”. Now, through the help from my nutrition and dietetics professors at Ohio University I was able to see that protein is in so many various food sources. Which blew my mind! Now, I get to share all of my knowledge with all of you!

Say What?

When people think about protein, they think meat, beans, and nuts.  Contrary to popular knowledge fruits and vegetables are sources of protein too! Fruits provide less protein than vegetables, but, are still a good source of protein! Who knew? I researched some of the top five high protein fruits:  

• Blackberries
• Guava
• Dried Apricots
• Raisins
• Dates
• Any Many More Fruits!

 

Its very important to your body to consume adequate amounts of protein. I have attached a very informative info graphic to assist in the explanation of good sources of protein!

How can you add more of these protein sources to your diet?

This is very achievable for everyone! From the tips from the ” Be Creative” portion of my last post called How to Start Food Budgeting with Less Than $100 A Month. Get inspired and add these alternative protein sources to your meals today!

Are you making rice for your taco night? Maybe add some beans, or switch to quinoa “fried rice”  Click here for an awesome recipe! (for vegan version subtract the eggs).

Are you making a salad? Add some crunchy pumpkin seeds, fresh spinach, kale, or mushroom for some added protein to that delicious salad!

In the morning, jazz up your toast with some almond butter! Maybe add  a little healthy monounsaturated fat to your toast  from avocados!

Who to talk to about protein if you still need more assistance!

Consult with Nutrition Translator Colleen Poling RD, or a registered dietitian in your local area. With the new year coming up, a healthier you will never go out of style! Invest in your self this year and seek out some assistance from a Registered Dietitian.

❤ Ally Kuehn