As we look at ways to improve our eating habits in order to ensure an optimal BMI and increase our overall chances of fertility, the question arises: what should we be eating?

The answer is: protein, protein, protein!

But be careful now, that doesn’t mean you should rush out and buy a 5lb slab of meat! Keep in mind that too much protein can actually have adverse affects. Instead, adding two and half ounces of protein to each meal will result in decreased hunger and greater satisfaction.

As we know, protein is used for growth, development, and immunity. Protein is essential for building and repairing muscle, skin tissue and blood cells. During and following exercise, our bodies use more branch chain amino acids, and these need to be replaced within 30 minutes of exercise.

Protein is absolutely crucial for the metabolism as well. Unlike carbohydrates and fat, protein is not stored within the body. Protein also takes more energy to digest, meaning you’re going to burn more calories as your body processes protein, which will, in turn, speed up your metabolism.

For physically active people, the recommended daily amount of protein is 1 gram per pound of body weight. So if you’re 140 lbs and active, you’ll need 140 grams of protein to ensure adequate and optimal recovery and/or weight loss.

Here is a list of low fat, high protein sources:

  • Fish
  • Poultry
  • Eggs
  • Milk
  • Low fat yogurt
  • Soy milk
  • Tofu
  • Cheese (including cottage cheese)
  • Various nuts and beans (don’t forget peanut butter!)
  • Vegetables
  • Happy Eating!

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