Why Protein is Critical for Healthy Energy Levels

What would I say has been the best way to good energy as a full time working mom of a toddler?  My protein intake.  It is something I didn’t really notice before.  Now when I don’t get enough protein my energy slumps.  By 6pm I am ready to crawl into bed.  Does this sound familiar?

What I am doing to get in more protein

So what are some ways I get in more protein?  I make it the star of the show for every meal.  If you are anything like I used to be this may require some changes.  I used to make a vegetable the star of every show AKA every meal was a salad.  Then I would add a portion of protein and fat to it.  Now I make my protein the main star and the vegetable is my side (and of course some fat and usually some sort of starch in there).

What are other benefits of protein

Aside from the increase in energy I have noticed some other benefits.  One of the benefits was one that I didn’t even realize before.  A lot of raw vegetables actually really hurts my stomach.  I had no idea until I stopped and then tried to have a big salad.  My stomach hurt.  My advice?  Cut out raw vegetables and see if this is the case for you.  Another benefit?  I am full for a lot longer.  I can have breakfast and go until lunch without that mid-morning snack I always used to need.  Another huge benefit is my blood sugar is so much more stable.  Ever get those afternoon shakes?  Not anymore when you increase your protein intake.

Some other tips for getting in more protein

I understand it may not always be feasible to have a big steak or slab of salmon.  So instead here are a few other things you can do.  High quality beef sticks – we really like Paleo Valley.  Another great option is protein powder.  I LOVE Equip Prime Protein.  I get their unflavored protein and put it in everything.  One scoop is 20g of high quality protein.  I even add it to our Sunday morning pancakes (and no one even notices).  If you want to try it out go to equipfoods.com.  You can get 15% off with my code at check out wellnourishedwithkristen. We also always cook up ground turkey and have it available to snack on. Hard boiled eggs are another good choice if you tolerate eggs.

Let me know how you feel when you start incorporating more protein in your day!