FOOD+NUTRITION By Caroline Pruente, MS, RDN, LDN
The Ins and Outs of Protein Whether you choose barre, cycling, powerlifting, or running, fueling well with plenty energy and protein to train, perform, and recover is key. Though protein is widely known for its role in muscle growth and contraction, this macronutrient does so much more than fuel physical activity alone. Proteins also act as: • Antibodies to fight infections • Enzymes to speed up reactions, like digestion • Hormones to coordinate metabolism, temperature regulation, and more • Hemoglobin to transport oxygen from the lungs throughout the body Amino acids are small organic compounds that come together to form protein. There are 20 different kinds of amino acids that serve as building blocks for various types of proteins. Protein’s structure serves to slow digestion, which increases satiety and fullness at meals and snacks. While protein is in all foods in varying quantities, food sources with higher protein fall into two categories: animal and plant-based proteins.
Animal Proteins
Plant-based Proteins
Poultry
Nuts
Beef
Nut butter
Fish
Tofu
Ham
Beans
Pork
Tempeh
Eggs
Edamame
Yogurt
Peas
Cheese
Lentils
Milk
Do I Get Enough Protein? Answer the next few questions to see where you fall… True or False I eat a source of protein 2-3 times a day, between meals and snacks. True or False I eat mostly animal sources of protein. True or False I am a vegetarian, and I intentionally seek out plant proteins. If you answered mostly “false,” perhaps it’s time to add some punches of protein in your day-to-day eating. Remember: Too much of a good thing isn’t necessarily a good thing…There is no nutritional benefit to eating protein in excess. Use “The Plate Method” to ensure balance: portion half your plate with fruits or vegetables, a quarter with protein, and a quarter with carbohydrate-rich foods as a general guide. Eating enough protein-packed foods is just as important as eating them consistently, spreading protein intake evenly throughout the day. Latest nutrition research shows muscle protein synthesis (or muscle growth) is 25% higher when protein is steadily and consistently eaten throughout the day versus eaten in a single protein-heavy dinner. Similarly, pairing protein with carbohydrate within 30–45 minutes of a workout is ignites optimal recovery. Tried and true post-workout snacks include: • Sunflower Seed Butter + Graham Crackers • Chocolate Milk • Turkey + Tortilla Wrap • Grapes + Cheddar Cheese Still wondering if you’re portioning protein appropriately? Memphis Nutrition Group provides personalized nutrition coaching and can tailor recommendations specifically for you.
Animal sources of protein are considered complete due to their amino acid profile, while plant-based proteins require a “pairing” with another food to ensure a complete amino acid profile (example: peanut butter AND toast or rice AND beans).
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Caroline Pruente, MS, RDN is a nutrition therapist and Registered Dietitian at Memphis Nutrition Group. Memphis Nutrition Group believes in a non-diet approach that promotes overall health and optimal performance without compromising the enjoyment of food. For more information call Memphis Nutrition Group at 901.343.6146 or visit MemphisNutritionGroup.com.
