Did you know that every cell in the human body contains protein? This might not be something you think of every day, but if you’re starting a high-protein diet, this fact can help you understand the importance of this macronutrient.
But what are the protein intake mistakes you should avoid? The last thing you want is to spend time and energy consuming protein only to find your efforts have been ineffective. Fortunately, you can sidestep these 5 common mistakes to help you get the right amount each day.
Read on to learn more.
1. Not Eating the Right Foods
There are many delicious sources of protein, but not all of them are created equal. For example, you may find there is a high amount of saturated fats in a cut of red meat in comparison to a portion of chicken. Or, your favorite spread could contain fillers or preservatives that are unhealthy.
But, if you consume almond butter protein or turkey protein, you could get a high amount of protein while enjoying a healthy snack.
2. Not Consuming Protein at the Right Times
One of the most well-known benefits of protein is that it can help build muscle. This is why many athletes consume high-protein meals after a workout. However, if you were to wait too long to give your body what it needs to repair your muscles, the results can be less impressive.
Therefore, you should think about when will be the most important times to have a protein snack close to hand.
3. Buying Ineffective Protein Supplements
When setting health goals, it’s easy to try and take shortcuts. This could lead to you buying protein supplements that promise quick results. However, many of these supplements don’t deliver what they say, and you could be spending money on questionable products.
Instead, look for natural protein sources that you can incorporate into your daily diet.
4. Consuming Unhealthy Protein Shakes
Protein shakes can be tasty and are often easy to prepare. But, you need to consider if all the ingredients are suitable for inclusion in a high-protein drink. For example, fruits such as avocadoes can be high in fat, and potatoes could contain too many carbs to fit with your diet plan.
Take some time to find protein shake recipes that are nutritious and simple to make.
5. Eating Too Much Protein
While you may be keen on eating a high-protein diet, you don’t want to consume too much. This could lead to health issues such as developing kidney stones. If you’re not sure how much protein you should consume, you can seek advice from a qualified health professional.
Avoid These Common Protein Intake Mistakes
When you know which protein intake mistakes to avoid, you can consume the recommended daily amount in the most efficient way. It can help to look for foods that contain low amounts of fat and preservatives, and to eat protein at the times when your body needs it most. You should also avoid buying disreputable supplements and ensure you don’t consume more protein than is healthy.
This can help you get the most from this crucial macronutrient!
If you’ve enjoyed reading this protein intake article, be sure to read more of our excellent blog posts before you go.