Hey Sis! If you didn’t know already consuming enough protein is VITAL for the growth and development of your body.
When you don’t get enough protein it can cause muscle cramping, weakness, and soreness. Not to mention if you're trying to workout or squash your gym goals not consuming enough protein will inhibit your body from proper muscle growth, and we can’t have that! If you want to learn more about protein and ALL that it does for your body check out our blog post “Power of Protein"!
Now that we’ve talked about protein a little I know you might be thinking “hmmmm, I wonder if I’m getting enough protein” odds are you aren‘t! You have to consciously make sure your body is getting enough of the macronutrients it needs so much in order to properly function.
Here are 5 easy ways to add more protein into your diet.
1. Do your research!!!
I cannot stress how important it is to do your own research. We will always be here to provide you with the facts and information necessary for you to reach your goals; However, it is STILL important to do your OWN research. So learn, take notes, and teach others. Passing along knowledge is the only way we will continue to not only survive but THRIVE sis!
2. Make sure your are eating protein in every meal
This step goes along with doing your own research. Learn about different foods and how much protein each of them contain. Think about your current diet and if you eat enough of these viable protein sources. If not, well its time to start implementing some of them and swapping out foods that may not provide you with enough nutrients with some of these better options.
3. Eat your protein FIRST
BREAKFASTTTTT. yup I said it
Get that protein in right when you wake up! There are so many easy options for a protein filled breakfast even for individuals like myself who may not like eating first thing in the morning.
1. Eggs
2. Protein Pancakes
Right now I am LOVING the blueberry and maple protein flapjacks by Kodiak cakes. They are absolutely delicious. I got mine from Kroger but we have them available in our amazon shop. If you would like to see what they look like or purchase them via amazon in a 12 pack check out the Black Girl Workouts Amazon Shop in the section labeled food!
3. Oats
4. Greek Yogurt
5. Protein Shakes (check out my strawberry protein shake recipe, its delicious i promise!)
& so many more, you can get creative as well!
4. Prep your food
While I know meal prepping is not for everyone it allows you to know ahead of time what exactly is going into your body. By calculating each of your macros in your prepped meals you are ensuring that you are getting in enough protein based on your body type and current goals.
If meal prepping is not for you then simply PLAN AHEAD.
Get into planning your foods, snacks, and protein sources ahead of time so that you are not lacking in protein or trying to figure out everything the day of. Planning ahead also prevents you from making those bad food choices that are holding you back from reaching your goals.
5. Have well rounded meals
You do not have to get all of your protein from one source in each meal. Your sides and even snacks can be good sources of nutrients as well! Variety is key.
Take a burrito bowl for example:
In this bowl you are receiving good amounts of protein from the chicken, beans, cheese, brown rice, and avocado. Basically, every component in this meal provides you with protein! Plus it's delicious!
Don't forget to think of creative ways to get your protein.
No one wants to get bored and grow tired of what they are eating. Make sure to switch it up, try new snacks, new foods, and satisfy your cravings while you are keeping your body strong.
Lastly, Don't stress the process Sis! Although getting enough protein is important do not overwhelm yourself everyday and stress over it. It's all a learning process, and apart of your journey. Just take it day by day and I PROMISE it will get easier.
Health is Wealth, xo Darian