A study conducted by Consumer Reports found that when testing a group of protein drinks, 15 tested positive for heavy metals like cadmium, lead, arsenic, and mercury. Additionally, three of these 15 broke federal safety guidelines with alarming high levels of contaminants. While we can’t deny the convenience of a protein powdered milkshake, consumers should question what other additives are included to produce this supplement. Protein is very important to a healthy diet and exercise, but in order to achieve wellness patients should turn to nutritious, natural sources of protein. Quality, non-processed sources of protein are essential to bodily whole health and wellness.
Quality Over Convenience
For many, taking the time to make nutritious choices in our daily busy lives can be quite stressful. With a nonstop, work-filled lifestyle it can be hard to find the time to make meals so instead we turn to the convenience of processed protein bars or a whey smoothie. While one scoop of whey protein powder can contain upwards of 27 grams of protein, you should also caution what nutrients you are abstaining from by choosing the processed, un-natural product.
By instead choosing a natural protein source like a handful of almonds or 250 grams of Greek yogurt (that have the same protein content as the powder) you are receiving valuable antioxidants and nutrients in addition to the protein source. “Although the powder has a higher concentration of protein it has a lack of other nutrients that naturally accompany proteins found in meat, fish, dairy products or whole grains. Protein food offer vitamins, minerals, carbohydrates and healthy fats unavailable in protein powder,” says Freelitics. Choosing real food over processed protein sources is valuing your whole person care over convenience.
Opt for Variety
Doctors encourage some patient education before hitting the grocery store on what sources of protein to include in a daily diet plan, says the American Heart Association. The key for a healthy heart and body is not only choosing a quality source, but also eating protein in moderation. Not all individuals need the same amount of protein daily; in fact, the USDA recommends .8 grams of protein per kg of body weight. For example, a healthy 155 pound adult will need about 56 grams of protein daily. Nutritionists recommend eating a variety of protein sources – not just red meats – for a balanced diet.
Powerful and Natural Proteins
One of the best meals to get your daily protein serving is through breakfast. With wholesome, non-processed sources like eggs, Greek yogurts, and milk, you have several options to naturally fuel your body with protein for the day. Healthy high-protein snacks include nuts like peanuts and almonds which have roughly six grams of protein per ounce in addition to valuable antioxidants and vitamins like manganese. For dinner, fish like tuna and salmon offer a powerful punch of protein and heart healthy omega-3’s. Paired with broccoli or Brussels sprouts, you receive both a serving of fiber and protein.
Consuming quality protein might be a little more time consuming than opting for the convenient protein bar, but you are fortifying your body with healthy nutrients. Fuel your body the natural way, ditch the protein bars, and instead pick wholesome protein sources.
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