Protein-How do I get it, and why is it so important?

I find that friends are often asking me, how do I get more protein into my diet? I guess you could wear it like Lady Gaga, or......Ok but seriously, why is protein is so important in reaching your weight loss goals and/or maintaining a healthy weight? First, protein aids in repairing and keeping muscle tissue, especially when you're losing weight, and secondly, it makes up your overall body composition, keeping you fit and strong. So "protein" is just another piece of the puzzle in your overall health and wellness, and therefore, yes very important!

AND when eaten at each meal, throughout the day, it will help maintain your metabolism, revving up your internal engine, and aiding in losing those unwanted pounds. So does this mean you have to be a slave to the chicken?! Of course, not! There are many ways to get protein into your diet without having to continually wonder if you have to be spend your days eating chicken breasts. Here are some great ways to add it into your healthy regimen:

egg whites (they come conveniently "pasteurized" in cartons so you can either microwave them in a bowl with your favorite toppings for an eggwhite scramble or sandwich, or put them into your smoothie, in liquid form because, as noted, they have been pasteurized so your safe. A great natural way to get extra protein into your smoothie and you won't even know it's there!)

greek yogurt (it's all the rage, thick, satisfying and full of, you guessed it, protein!)

milk (whether cows milk, almond, soy, rice or coconut, have a nice cold glass, yum!)

cheese (when it comes to dairy, opt for lowfat and use your thumb as a measurement for a cheese portion)

lowfat cottage cheese (jam packed with protein)

almonds/ walnuts "Eating nuts as part of a healthy diet can be good for your heart. Nuts, which contain unsaturated fatty acids and other nutrients, are a great snack food, too. They're inexpensive, easy to store and easy to take with you to work or school."~Mayo Clinic

hard boiled eggs (quick and convenient on the go snack ready to grab from your fridge)

protien powder or bars (look for all natural ingredients and low sugar content)

jerky

of course lean animal protiens (turkey, beef, chicken, fish, shrimp)

peanut or almond butters (remember 2 Tbs is a serving)

hummus (remember 2 Tbs is a serving)

beans (or get fancy with it and call them a legume, either way they have a great amount of protein to keep you satisfied and a healthy carb content)

ALWAYS IN GOOD HEALTH, ~FoodieGIRL :)