Why Protein is so Important When we Eat Clean!
Protein is one of three macronutrients required to keep our bodies functioning. The Other two macro’s being carbohydrates and fats. More on those in my previous posts.
Each nutrient is important for health, but protein is the most talked about. We need protein for building and repairing our body’s tissues, such as skin, hair, organs and blood.
We also need protein for building and maintaining our muscles which rewards us with a well-functioning metabolism, healthy ageing and overall daily bodily functions.
Whether you're hoping to build muscle, combat hunger or simply better your overall wellness, including a clean quality protein in your meals can be the key.
Adding clean protein to your meals along with healthy carbohydrates and fats, will provide a more steady, prolonged energy boost by regulating your blood sugar.
Protein doesn’t necessarily affect blood sugar levels like carbs do, so consuming it won’t spike your blood sugar and lead to energy lows afterwards.
Protein actually helps stabilise your blood sugar when you’re eating a high-carb meal, say for example a bowl of breakfast cereal.
Protein takes longer to break down in your digestive system, potentially slowing the release of sugars into your bloodstream. Giving you longer lasting energy, less mood swings and clearer thinking.
By now you should be curious about the best clean proteins to include in your meals.
Meat and animal-based options are the most obvious when thinking of adding protein. Chicken, fish, lean red meat, dairy, eggs are all foods that can boost your protein levels.
But the key is to remember the less processed the food the better. Fancy and packaged meats generally include preservatives to either enhance the meat taste or keep a longer shelf life. The same can be said for flavoured dairy yoghurts and milks.
Sodium and saturated fats in some of these packaged foods can contribute to poor heart health and weight gain. Look for lean, nutrient-dense options lower in unhealthy fats and sodium, such as eggs and egg whites, chicken, turkey and oily fish such as salmon.
Opt for plain Greek yogurt, kefir and cottage cheese as they are fermented food. Good for the gut too!
Try adding high fibre plant-based proteins to your meals such as nuts and seeds to yogurt, cottage cheese or smoothie bowls. Or simply snack on their own.
High-protein grains include amaranth, quinoa (a seed cooked and eaten like a grain), oats and spelt.
Perfect plant-based clean eating options are tofu, edamame and beans. Not only are they great protein sources they bring awesome nutrients such as fibre, iron and magnesium to the table.
Clean eating is about enjoying a variety of foods and combining the three major macros so that it supports your body tomorrow and the next.
So go on give it a try!
Balancing lifestyle with nutrition for a happier, healthier life!
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