Protein — it’s the thing we all need to survive, and it’s the nutrient many of us may not eat enough of. But here at Snap Kitchen, we’re big believers in a well-balanced meal, which includes eating enough high-quality protein.
So, to celebrate National Protein Day, February 27th, we’re going to talk about one of our favorite things: protein!
First, What is Protein?
Protein is the macronutrient of all macronutrients. All animals, including us humans, need to eat protein to get amino acids that keep our body functioning as usual. These amino acids, once ingested, do a lot of things, including:
- Work to convert glucose into energy
- Feed the citric acid cycle
- Fuel and repair muscle mass
- Help maintain quality of skin, hair, teeth, and nails
- Help keep us full for longer, which works to promote weight loss
And when done right, using high-quality protein can even work to boost your gastrointestinal health and immune system. No wonder we can’t live without it!
Where Can I Find Protein?
Protein is in a lot of foods, but mostly in meats such as chicken, eggs, fish, beef, pork. However, not everyone eats meat. So, it’s important to note that you can also find protein in:
- Almonds
- Oats
- Dairy products (like cottage cheese, greek yogurt, and milk)
- Broccoli
- Pumpkin seeds
- Peanuts
Consider that the next time you go to saute your broccoli stir fry, or make your classic PB&J.
How Much Protein Do I Really Need?
This is really the age-old question, isn’t it? The word protein itself has a Greek origin that literally means “primary”, “lead” or “standing in front”. Plus, it’s a wonderful thing that keeps you fuller longer. It’s hard to get the protein you need if you’re abstaining from meat.
Let’s discuss how much protein is enough.
According to the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, it varies by age, gender, weight, physical activity level, whether or not you’re pregnant or breastfeeding, and even what your health goals are. But that aside, there are some very general guidelines. Since adequate protein intake is vital to overall health, our registered dietitians recommend 4-6oz (or ~28-42g) per meal. That might look like a filet of salmon alongside some veggies and avocado, or some organic sprouted tofu with broccoli cooked in avocado oil. However you choose to incorporate it, I think we can all agree that protein is essential!
At Snap Kitchen, our chefs and Registered Dietitians put careful consideration into the macronutrient breakdown of each meal. You can rest assured that no matter what your favorite Snap meal is, you’re getting the high-quality protein that your body needs.
Some of the most popular higher protein dishes at Snap Kitchen include:
- Crispy salmon
- Chicken tenders with turnip mash
- Bison quinoa bowl
- Naked salmon
- Naked beef
- Over easy burger with sweet potato
What’s your favorite protein-based Snap Kitchen meal? Let us know in the comments!
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