Protein

Protein is pretty much what your entire body is made of. The body doesn’t store amino acids which are the building blocks of protein, so you have to take in protein everyday. Adults need a minimum of about 9 grams of protein for every 20 pounds (1 gram of protein for every kilogram) of body weight per day to keep from slowly breaking down it’s own tissues. Unfortunately, it eats away at muscle, not fat. 

Around the world, millions of people don’t get enough protein. Lack of protein can cause growth failure, loss of muscle mass, decreased immunity, weakening of the heart and respiratory system, and death.

 Protein requires calcium. Eating too much protein can cause calcium deficiency. A balance is essential for proper health.   

Where to get it –

Almonds, artichokes, bagels, beans, beef, chocolate, cheese, chicken, collard greens, cottage cheese, canned corn, cornmeal, couscous, crab, duck, eggs, fish, flour, lobster, meats, milk, milkshakes, peanuts, peas – split, pistachios, poultry, salmons, sardines, seeds, shrimp, spinach – cooked only, trail mix, trout, wild rice, yogurt

However – you need to be aware that Protein is made of varying amino acids, and plant protein is different from animal protein. Animal protein is a complete protein. Vegetables have to be eaten in certain combinations to make a complete protein. I have not been able to find a good list of vegetable foods to combine to make a complete protein. I know corn and beans forms a compete protein. I will continue to search for a good list.