PRO-TEIN

Protein is an essential part of a healthy, well balanced diet. Protein makes up the building blocks of organs, muscles, skin and hormones. Your body needs protein to maintain and repair tissues. Children have an increased need for protein, as their bodies are rapidly growing and changing.

Another result of adequate protein intake is reduced appetite and hunger levels. It also improves muscle mass and strength, boosts your metabolism and reduces cravings!

Studies show, eating protein can help you loose weight and belly fat while increasing your muscle mass and strength. The recommended daily intake (RDI) for protein is 46 grams for woman and 56 grams for men. 

Protein can be found in a wide variety of foods and is essential in a healthy diet. High protein foods include: lean chicken, lean pork, tofu, beans, nuts/seeds, fish and eggs. The protein content can be viewed on the dietary nutrition facts label.

Getting adequate protein intake is not difficult! Here are simple, inexpensive high protein snacks that will increase your protein intake and boost weight loss:

1. Jerky

2. Trail Mix

3. Turkey Roll-ups

4. Greek Yogurt

5. Veggies with Yogurt Dip

6. Nuts and Seeds

7. Hard Boiled Eggs

8. Peanut Butter with Apples

9. No Bake Energy Bites (recipe HERE)

10. Cheese Slices

11. Handful of Almonds

12. Roasted Chickpeas

13. Hummus

14. Fruit and Nut Bars

15. Edamame 

These high protein foods are great to have on hand when hunger strikes between meals! They'll keep you full and satisfied and prevent patterns of grazing between meals.