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We all know how important protein is for building muscles, staying full, boosting our metabolism. However, many of us struggle to eat enough protein each day because we don’t love eating a ton of meat. I’m sharing my tips of How to eat enough protein without eating a lot of meat.
I was never a huge meat eater… and it wasn’t really on purpose. I just tended to eat more carbs (even healthy ones) but I realized how important protein really was for my health and weight loss goals.
When I was pregnant, my midwife told me that I needed even more protein in my diet to help my baby grow. That’s when I started looking for ways to add protein into my diet without eating more meat.
Why is it Important to eat Protein Everyday
Protein is an essential nutrient that plays a crucial role in many bodily functions. Here are some reasons why it’s important to eat protein every day:
1. Building Blocks: Proteins are the building blocks of your body. They’re used to build and repair tissues like muscles and organs. They’re also used to produce enzymes and hormones.
2. Satiety: Protein can help you feel fuller for longer. It reduces levels of the hunger hormone ghrelin and boosts the appetite-reducing hormones. This can help you eat fewer calories without even trying.
3. Muscle Mass: Eating enough protein is important for maintaining and building muscle mass, particularly if you’re physically active or lifting weights.
4. Bone Health: Eating plenty of protein can support bone health and may reduce the risk of osteoporosis and fractures.
5. Metabolism: A high protein intake can boost your metabolism, helping you burn slightly more calories each day. Here are more metabolism boosting tips.
6. Recovery: After a workout, protein helps repair the damage done to your muscles, reducing muscle soreness and improving recovery.
7. Nutrient Dense: Many protein-rich foods are nutrient dense, meaning they provide a lot of essential vitamins and minerals in relation to their calorie content.
Remember, while protein is important, it’s also necessary to have a balanced diet that includes a variety of different foods to ensure you’re getting a wide range of nutrients.
Can you eat enough protein without eating meat?
Yes, it is absolutely possible to get enough protein without eating meat. Many plant-based foods are high in protein and can provide all the essential amino acids your body needs. When I was pregnant, I was trying to eat at least 100 grams of protein every day. Because this was an important thing to track, I used the app my fitness pal to track my daily grams of protein. You can easily see what the macros are of any food you eat. You may be surprised what non-meat foods have protein in it! Next, I’m going to share some of my favorite non meat protein sources.
Non Meat Protein Sources:
Here is a list of my favorite non-meat foods.
- Greek Yogurt
- Cottage Cheese
- Quinoa
- Beans
- Lentils
- Peanut Butter and Peanut Flour
- Nuts
- Chia Seeds
- Hemp Seeds
- Ezekiel Bread
- Eggs
- Hummus
- Keto Friendly Protein Powder
When I was pregnant, I dealt with so many food aversions and almost ALL Meat was off the list… that’s when I really learned about using protein powders and how they can supplement your protein intake.
Now, my whole family loves drinking smoothies and making snacks using protein powder to keep us full longer and avoid the sugar crashes.
In conclusion, even if you don’t love eating meat, it doesn’t mean you have to miss out on your protein intake. From legumes and grains to nuts, seeds, and even certain vegetables, there’s a whole world of protein-rich, plant-based foods out there waiting to be explored. Remember, variety is key to ensuring you’re getting all the essential amino acids your body needs. So, don’t be afraid to mix things up and try new recipes. Whether you’re a seasoned vegetarian, a committed vegan, or just looking to reduce your meat consumption, these protein-packed foods can help you stay healthy, satisfied, and energized. Happy eating!
What is your favorite way to add protein into your diet?
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