StatePoint) Protein is an essential part of a healthy diet. It works to build and repair muscles, is needed to transport oxygen to different parts of your body to give you energy, supports your immune system and helps you feel fuller for longer.
Here’s how to get enough of this important macronutrient so you can embrace a healthy lifestyle.
- Mix it up: According to registered dietitian and culinary nutritionist Laura Ali, eating protein from a variety of sources helps you get a variety of essential vitamins and minerals like iron, zinc, potassium, calcium, selenium, B vitamins and healthy fats. Getting some variety in your diet also makes life a lot more interesting so that healthy habits are easier to follow. Choose from lean proteins like lean beef, chicken, pork and of course seafood. And don’t forget to include proteins like beans, nuts, seeds, eggs and dairy products.
- Timing: When you eat protein also matters. A protein-packed snack right after a workout helps repair and recover muscles, says Ali, who also advises including some protein with every meal. Discontinuing protein consumption during the day gives you the constant supply needed to repair tissue, build hormones, and transport oxygen.
- Make it easy: When it comes to healthy habits, convenience can help keep you on track, so look for protein sources that can be prepared quickly or taken on the go. Dedicated to supporting the health and wellness of consumers, StarKist makes it easier than ever to get your daily protein intake. Known for its tuna, StarKist is becoming a leading protein provider with a line of convenient, ready-to-eat products that also includes salmon, chicken and most recently, beef. Each fully cooked, ready-to-eat protein product provides 8-17 grams of protein per serving and comes in a convenient, portable pouch — ideal for a busy, on-the-go lifestyle. With over 30 flavors, including Buffalo, Chili Thai, and Lemon Pepper, it’s easy to add high-quality, delicious protein to any meal, anywhere.
- Celebrate Your Wins: Helping fuel daily goals, high-protein diets and success go hand-in-hand, and celebrating your wins as they come can keep the momentum going. Whether your goals include running a marathon, getting in your daily walk or just spending quality time with family, one way to highlight your personal victories and the strength you get from life and your work is through the new campaign # FlexWithStarKist. Using the hashtag #FlexwithStarKistSweepstakes on Instagram, fans can enter for a chance to win the grand prize of $2,500 cash and other cash prizes and StarKist goodies. See official rules at www.FlexWithStarKist.com.
For inspiration and protein-packed nutritional products, visit https://starkist.com/products/pouches/.
Protein can leave you feeling energized and help you reach your goals. Fortunately, getting the protein you need when you need it is easy these days, thanks to the new and delicious options available today.