#protein

#protein

The Trump administration announced last week that it wants Americans to consume more protein, churning out a colorful illustration of an inverted food pyramid that prominently features a big, red steak, a wedge of cheese, and a carton of whole milk at the top and claiming it's "ending the war on protein." It may seem like another example of cartoonish propaganda from an administration that essentially runs on memes, but don't be fooled: It signals a marked turn from previous advice that encouraged Americans to limit high-fat sources of protein like red meat and whole milk for their health, which can incidentally also curb planet-heating pollution from the beef and dairy industries.

While it's long been recognized as a vital nutrient, many people are working even harder lately to get more protein into their diets. Protein gives us energy, helps produce new cells and keep them healthy, aids in transporting oxygen throughout our bodies, and assists in creating antibodies that fight illness. It's no wonder we're often looking into ingredients that pack a protein punch.

Protein is quite the buzzword these days, and rightfully so. It's an essential macronutrient that contributes to the optimum health of your body, though people especially like it for its muscle-building properties and the way it can aid weight loss. But there are also some myths surrounding protein that you need to stop believing. For example, it's a myth that consuming it immediately after a workout is crucial if you want to build muscle.

Grocery store shelves are stacked with convenient, protein-ified snacks, from bars to soda. But how much should you rely on them if you're trying to avoid ultra-processed foods? For Rob Hobson, a sports nutritionist, the answer is simple: it's "very, very easy" to consume enough protein without relying on UPFs, which are linked to obesity, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular disease when eaten in large amounts.

Getting enough protein in your diet is essential for building muscle, repairing bones, and basically getting through the day. But if you're left feeling a little cold by protein shakes and low-fat cottage cheese, a bowl of chicken and broccoli soup can be just as high in protein but a whole lot more comforting. Chicken is famously high in protein, but the exact amount can depend on which cut you choose.

Usually, people are either in the French toast or pancake camp when it comes to breakfast, but there's no denying that a good waffle just really hits the spot every so often. Sweet, satisfying, and totally customizable, waffles can be a morning-time hero when prepared the right way, and there's one ingredient you can utilize to give them a quick protein boost: chickpeas.

On strength training days, I chug a gloopy concoction of protein powder, higher-protein Fairlife milk, and coffee that has the consistency of drying cement and tastes like I forgot how to love myself. I mix cottage cheese in my eggs and top my berry oatmeal with chia seeds and peanut butter, my head buzzing with all the high-protein swaps I need to make to hit my target protein goal - a whopping daily minimum of 53 grams.

Sisters but not twins, chia seed pudding and overnight oats offer convenient, nutrition-forward, make-ahead options for a fueling breakfast during busy mornings. Both dishes consist of dry ingredients hydrated in a dairy component to become texturally soft, rich, and creamy. But, just as each dish provides its own tasting profile and mouthfeel, each also comes with its own respective health benefits. When it comes to nutrition, overnight oats win for protein and chia seed pudding wins for fiber.

First off, one serving of canned sardines has almost 100% of the daily recommended intake of omega-3s, which are associated with tons of positive health benefits. Omega-3 fatty acids are good for heart health, and known to help prevent things like hypertension, type 2 diabetes, and fatty liver. What's even better is that research suggests that the other nutrients and minerals found in sardines - including calcium, magnesium, potassium, and zinc - may work together with omega-3s to produce better results than supplements alone.

Protein provides the building blocks of our organs and body, and that it's essential to improve the immune system. It's also used to make neurotransmitters, can function as hormones or can provide fuel through glucogenic or ketogenic pathways.

Being given a pint without a nice thick foamy head is a common cause of frustration for pub-goers. But according to a new study, it might not be due to bar staff botching the pour. Scientists in Switzerland and the Netherlands have found that the stability of beer foam is due to a protein present in the liquid. And this protein tends to be more abundant in 'triple-fermented' beers, which are especially popular in Belgium.

Eating fish regularly has been associated with reducing the risk of premature death by 12%.

General Mills has decided to discontinue three flavors of Cheerios to introduce new products, including the Cheerios Protein line that features innovative flavors.

The Real Good Foods chicken enchiladas boast a high protein content with 31 grams per serving, featuring unique chicken and cheese tortillas for added nutrition.

"Catalina Crunch Cinnamon Toast is not just tasty; it provides an impressive protein boost with 11 grams of protein and 9 grams of fiber per serving."

When it comes to yogurt, it's no longer just American-style, high in sugar and low in protein; options now are diverse and rich in nutrients.

When visiting Wendy's, it's essential to know that not all secret menu items are universally available. Items like the T-Rex Burger can exceed typical protein goals but might catch some workers off guard.

Seafood is an excellent protein source, providing omega-3 fatty acids and essential vitamins, crucial for muscle function, tissue repair, and immune health.