Protein is vital for bodily functions like building and repairing tissues, muscles, and bones. Women aiming to boost their protein intake could be making common mistakes that hinder progress. Nutritionist Simrun Chopra highlights five key pitfalls: 1) skipping a protein-rich breakfast, 2) overindulging in high-fat protein foods, 3) mistakenly believing protein intake guarantees weight loss, 4) relying solely on protein shakes for nutrition, and 5) not combining vegetarian protein sources for completeness. To optimize protein benefits, ensure a balanced approach that includes adequate, diverse sources tailored to your dietary needs.
Protein is a vital nutrient essential for our bodies. It plays a crucial role in building and repairing tissues, muscles, and bones. Are you a woman looking to boost your protein intake recently? If so, this article is perfect for you. While protein is important for overall health, there are specific considerations to keep in mind to maximize its benefits. You may have been consuming protein but not observing the expected improvements, which could hinder your goals for increasing protein levels. So, what might be going wrong? Let’s uncover the answers with insights from Nutritionist Simrun Chopra.
Also Read: How To Make Protein-Packed Egg Garlic Fried Rice – Follow These Steps
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Here Are 5 Common Mistakes Women Make With Protein, According To The Nutritionist:
1. Eating A Low-Protein Breakfast
Is your breakfast made up solely of poha, parathas, and sandwiches? If yes, that could be your mistake. According to Simrun, women should aim for at least 20 grams of protein in their breakfast. If you’re vegetarian, think about including options like cheela, dosa, or idli. For non-vegetarians, a whole egg with two or more egg whites is a fantastic choice. She also recommends having a protein shake in the morning.
2. Overconsuming High-Fat Protein Foods
While protein-rich foods are beneficial, some can be high in fat and lead to excessive calorie intake. A prime example is paneer, which contains about 300 calories per 100-gram serving and provides 18-20 grams of protein. The nutritionist advises non-vegetarians to steer clear of meats that are high in fat.
3. Assuming Protein Intake Will Lead To Weight Loss
A widespread misconception is that simply eating protein will result in weight loss. This is not the case. Simrun explains that actual weight loss occurs only when you are in a calorie deficit, regardless of your protein intake. Therefore, while consuming protein, you’re also taking in calories, so it’s essential to monitor your total consumption.
4. Assuming A Protein Shake Will Solve All Your Problems
Protein shakes have gained popularity recently. Although they do provide some protein, the amount is often limited. Chopra notes that a protein shake can contain anywhere between 15 to 30 grams of protein, depending on the brand. To meet your daily protein needs, be sure to pair it with other protein sources.
Also Read: Soya Beans vs Soya Chunks: Which One Has More Protein?
5. Not Pairing Vegetarian Protein Sources
Simran points out that many vegetarian protein sources are incomplete proteins. This means you should combine them with other protein-rich foods to create a complete protein profile. For instance, if you eat nuts, consider pairing them with seeds for a complete protein boost.
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Have you encountered any of these protein pitfalls? We’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments below!