Make everyday a Protein Party!

Protein: Any of numerous, highly varied, organic molecules constituting a large portion of the mass necessary of all animals and organisims.

Ever heard of the caveman diet? Or the raw diet? or the paleo diet? or any of those "fresh" diets? Well, I wouldn't call them diets, EXACTLY, i would call them protein conscious eating habits..at least, that's how I like to think about it =)

I don't diet. Ever. There are two things i hardly ever eat/drink-- BEER (high carbs, high sugar, no nutritional value) and red meat (rare occassions). Other than that, i indulge, I don't "diet" (meaning cut out certain foods), i just eat clean and healthy! And OH YES, lets not forget about my never ending chocolate cravings...uh huh, yes sir. Top of the list buddy!

BUT, protein is a great way to streamline your eating habits. Protein is healthy, gives you energy, muscle mass (if you are working out actively), a better digestive system, and oh yes, a faster metabolism (or so they say!). So, why not focus on giving yourself a protein party everyday! Here is a list of quick easy, yummy things that are packed with protein! Snack em, eat em, sautee em, cook em, grill em, whatever! The less you add to them, the healthier they are for you!

1. NUTS--> almonds, peanuts, cashews, pecans, hazelnuts, ALL GOOD. Even peanut butter (LOW SALT) is a great way to sneak it in!

2. SEEDS --> Pumpkin seeds! sunflower & seasame seeds (again, NO SALT!) all great! I love adding some cayenne or paprika to my pumpkin seeds for a punch!

3. DAIRY --> some have mixed emotions about the fat content of diary ,myself? I consume a limited amount of what i call "pure" protein dairy EX: cottage cheese, ricotta cheese, fat free greek yogurt, fat free milk, egg whites (LOVE boiled eggs!)

4. BEANS --> one of my FAVORITE ways to grab n go a protein party! Kidney beans, black beans, pinto beans (no salt!), garbanzo beans, chick peas...yummmmmmm (hummus anyone?)

5. SOY --> this is the king of the party, soy EX: Tofu, soy milk, veggie burgers, these can contain up to a whopping 25 g per half cup! WOW! Try this Tofu Wonton Recipe!

6. SPINACH --> also provides a great source of fiber and Vitimin A! throw it in a salad, your sautee, your bake, or stuff it inside a chicken!

7. NON-FATTY MEATS --> Turkey & Chicken breast (skin off). I usually make a batch of this on the grill or sauteed or in the oven on Sunday and then have them all different ways as snacks or lunches during the week! Pork Loin is also good!

8. SEAFOOD --> Shrimp, Scallops, Mussels, all have under 80 calories per serving with very high protein ratios. Salmon, Hailbut, Tilapia are all great choices as well. Seafood is one of the best things you can eat when eaten without a lot of "additives" (ex cream sauce, pasta, etc).

Incorporate several servings a day of fresh fruit and veggies and you are good to go! =) How many ways can you incorporate protein into your diet!?