The Healthy Truth: 5 Ways to Get Your Protein

Based on readers’ comments, I’m going to continue to write some healthy living posts every once in a while, and continue with my series “The Healthy Truth”. It’s not going to be consistent, but I want to give some insight into what I’m focusing on, and how to be healthy and still enjoy life!

Have you ever experienced the in-between meals grumble?! You get a snack, and another, and another, and you’re STILL HUNGRY??! It happens to me all the time. Well, the reason why we aren’t satisfied, is because our bodies need lots of protein. Multiply your body weight by .37 and that’s how many grams of protein you need each day. I know I don’t get my recommended amount every day, but here are a few ways I’ve been working more protein into my diet without eating meat 5 times a day.

1. Nuts
I love nuts! But sometime the texture gets to me if I eat them a lot. So, my favorite way to get some nuts into my diet?! NUT BUTTERS! The obvious one is peanut butter, but there’s also almond butter and other butters full of protein! Just make sure you get the ones that have no added sugar. The more natural the better. My favorite snack to take along is a little tub of PB, and some carrot sticks. It’s super delicious and you get protein and veggies in one! BONUS!


I just discovered Justin’s and am OBSESSED with all of their butters! The Chocolate Hazelnut one is to DIE for too!

2. Greek Yogurt
I love Greek Yogurt, and have for a while. There are some very tasty options out there. You can get ones with the fruit on the bottom, blended, or in a separate pouch to add in. It really just depends on your preference. Also, if you aren’t a huge fan of it, try mixing up a cup, and putting some in popsicle makers and into the freezer. Greek FroYo pops at your service! Also, if you want to go SUPER healthy, just get plain Greek Yogurt and add your own mix-ins! Honey, fruit, nuts, etc.!


3. Oatmeal
I love oatmeal for an easy meal or snack solution. One cup of prepared oatmeal has 6 grams of protein, so it’s a great way to get some into your diet. If you are out and about, and need a quick food option, skip the nearest fast food joint, and go to Starbucks and order their classic oatmeal. It’s only $2.75, and you can mix nuts, fruits, and brown sugar in! Cinnamon is another favorite to sprinkle on top of my oatmeal!


4. Beans
Beans are an awesome source of protein! But you may be wondering, how do I incorporate beans into my diet? Well, hummus is a great choice! It’s made of garbanzo beans and is great with chips, crackers, and veggies! You can also use it as a spread on a sandwich! Another option, for those on the go, is a basic bean burrito. Maybe it isn’t the CLEANEST choice, but it’s something that will tide you over or get you through to the next meal. Taco Bell has bean burritos for just over a dollar, so there are no excuses!

5. Smoothies
Smoothies can be the ultimate healthy option! In my house, we blend together: spinach, banana and other fruits, carrots, other veggies, CHIA SEEDS, GREEK YOGURT, and anything else that may be in the fridge. They are completely customizable, and are great if you don’t really like the flavor or texture of a particular thing, like Greek Yogurt, or spinach. We love to make a giant blender-full of smoothie in the morning, and have it to snack on all day. If you are needing extra protein, you can also add protein powder (in moderation).

There are SO many other ways to get your protein, but these five I find to be really accessible and easy! Not to mention, they all taste awesome too! So, which one are you trying next?!


Allie Elliott
Follow @allieelliott