The Best Vs Worst Types Of Protein You Can Eat

There are healthy fats and unhealthy ones, just as there are healthy carbs and ones that aren’t good for you. An unhealthy carb would be candy, while vegetables are healthy options. The same holds for protein. Just as with carbohydrates, most bad proteins aren’t whole foods. Some are labeled high protein but also are high in sugar and chemicals. Here are some of the best and the worst types of protein to include or exclude from your diet.

Protein is one of the macronutrients.

There are three macronutrients, carbohydrates, protein, and fat. Your body requires all three to be its healthiest. Protein is necessary to build cells and repair tissue. It’s part of the process of enzyme production. Enzymes trigger reactions in the body and are part of digestion, in addition to other functions. Without enzymes, the body doesn’t function properly. You can’t store protein, so you need it daily. It must come from food. Quality matters. It should be pure and not adulterated with chemicals or sugar. One of the worst sources of protein is processed meat. Hot dogs, sausage, bacon, and mystery meats. They’re high in preservatives, saturated fat, and sodium.

Other poor-quality protein sources include protein powders and protein bars.

Some protein bars are delicious. They taste like candy or snack foods. That’s because they are those things. There are all types of protein bars with all types of ingredients. Not all of them are good sources of protein or even healthy options. Read the ingredients and look for additives and sugar. Instead of a protein bar, choose apple slices with nut butter as an option. Protein powder also can be deceptive. Not all are healthy options. They aren’t regulated, so they can contain poor-quality protein, even toxins, according to recent findings. Look for a protein powder tested by outside sources.

Good sources of protein don’t have to cost a lot.

Eggs are a good source of protein and while their price increased, are still bargain-priced for the quality they provide. They’re low in carbs and calories. They’re also high in vitamin D, B vitamins, omega-3 fatty acids, and choline. Beans and legumes are another great source. While they’re not complete proteins, you can combine them with other protein sources to provide all the essential amino acids required. They are high in nutrients and fiber, too.

• One of the healthiest forms of protein is fatty fish like salmon. It is high in omega-3 fatty acids and can improve cholesterol levels. Nuts and seeds are also good options for protein. They make great snacks, too.
• When you think of good protein sources, you probably think of chicken breasts. It’s a staple when it comes to bodybuilding and strength training. Chicken also is high in selenium, niacin, vitamins B12 and B6, and phosphorus.
• People often think a big steak is an excellent protein source, but it’s not the healthiest unless it’s from grass-fed pastured beef. Avoid red meat from grain-fed animals.
• Another inexpensive source of protein is tuna. Organ meats also fall into that category. Beware of some types of dairy products as a protein source. For some cheese, the ratio of fat to protein available isn’t good.

For more information, contact us today at Prime Fitness Studio