Are You Getting Enough Protein?

The Importance of Protein Intake

 

When you hear the term ‘protein’ you might just think about building muscle. However, getting enough protein is essential for our bodies to work properly. Getting the right amount of protein is so important for your body to function at its best. The amount of protein you need will differ for each individual depending on lifestyle, activity levels and personal goals.

 

Determining your suggested protein intake should be defined using your weight and your goals. For example, if you’re looking to lose weight, your protein intake could be a lot higher than you think as it will consume a larger percentage of your overall food groups.

 

If you’re feeling tired, sluggish, hungry a lot of the time, prone to injury or have brittle nails, these could be signs you’re not getting enough protein in your diet.

 

5 ways to add more protein to your diet:

 

1. Choose protein-rich varieties of the foods you love

 

When you fancy something like pasta, try avoiding refined carb-heavy products and reach for the alternative protein-based options such as chickpeas, red lentils or other ingredients.

 

2. Double up on ingredients containing protein

 

When trying to increase your protein intake, adding extra protein to your meals is a super easy way to get more protein in. For example, if you’re making pancakes, add an extra egg in the mix.

 

3. Eat more beans

 

One of the most available sources of protein is black beans. They are high in protein and fibre and a low cost pantry staple.

 

4. Include dairy

 

You may not think of protein when it comes to dairy but foods like milk, yoghurt and cheese also contain high protein. If you’re sensitive to lactose, you can also try plant-based options like soy and pea milk which also contain protein.

 

5. Add nuts and seeds to your meals

Think beyond snacks when it comes to nuts and seeds. Try adding chopped nuts or seeds to your main dishes. We recommend unsweetened and unsalted, sprinkled over a salad, pasta dish or stir fry. Watch out for portion sizes as nuts are high in fat.

 

If you think you’re not getting in enough protein (and chances are you’re probably not) try increasing your daily protein intake using the above techniques. Increasing your daily protein will leave you feeling fuller and more energised.

 

We’ve taken our best proteins and put them in one pack, our Plant Protein Pack.  Designed to help keep your energy levels stable throughout the day. The protein in nuts, greens and grains nourishes the body on a wholistic level leaving you satisfied and nourished for longer.