StatePoint) Protein is an essential part of a healthy diet: it helps build and repair muscle, carries oxygen to different parts of the body for energy, supports the immune system, and keeps you fuller for longer.
Here’s how to ensure you get enough of this important macronutrient for a healthy lifestyle.
Mix and match: Eating protein from a variety of sources will help you get a variety of essential vitamins and minerals, including iron, zinc, potassium, calcium, selenium, B vitamins, and healthy fats, says Laura Ali, a registered dietitian and culinary nutritionist. Plus, adding variety to your diet makes life a lot more interesting and easier to stick to healthy habits. Opt for lean proteins like beef, chicken, pork, and of course seafood. Don’t forget proteins like beans, nuts, seeds, eggs, and dairy. Get the timing right: When you eat your protein matters, too. Ali says that having a protein-packed snack right after exercise can help repair and recover muscles, and she also recommends having protein with every meal. Spreading out your protein intake throughout the day will ensure you’re continually getting the protein you need to repair tissue, make hormones, and transport oxygen. Make it easy: When it comes to healthy habits, convenience helps you stay on track. So look for protein sources that you can prepare quickly or take on the go. Committed to supporting the health and well-being of its consumers, StarKist makes getting your daily protein intake easier than ever. Known for its tuna, StarKist is quickly becoming a leading protein provider with a line of convenient ready-to-eat products that also include salmon, chicken and recently beef. Fully cooked, ready-to-eat protein products provide 8-17 grams of protein per serving and come in a convenient, portable pouch. Perfect for busy, on-the-go lifestyles. With over 30 flavors including Buffalo Style, Thai Chili and Lemon Pepper, it’s easy to add high-quality, delicious protein to any meal, anywhere. Celebrate your wins: Meeting daily goals, eating protein-rich meals and success go hand in hand, and celebrating your wins will help you keep the momentum going. Whether your goal is to run a marathon, take a daily walk or simply spend quality time with your family, you can highlight the personal victories and strengths from your life and work through the new #FlexWithStarKist campaign. By using the #FlexwithStarKistSweepstakes hashtag on Instagram, fans can enter for a chance to win $2,500 in prizes, as well as other cash prizes and StarKist merchandise. For official rules, visit www.FlexWithStarKist.com.
For more nutritious, protein-packed meal ideas and products, visit https://starkist.com/products/pouches/.
Protein gives you energy and helps you reach your goals, and luckily, new delicious options make it easier to get the protein you need, when you need it.
