Picky About Protein

by WiredBerries Editors — August 18, 2008

Protein is an essential part of a healthy diet, but it can be confusing trying to determine the right amount for you. Although there are no hard and fast rules, the Institute of Medicine recommends that adults get a minimum of 0.8 grams of protein for every kilogram of body weight per day.

Almost as important as getting enough, is choosing a smart protein source. As the Harvard School of Public Health explains "A 6-ounce broiled porterhouse steak is a great source of protein--38 grams worth. But it also delivers 44 grams of fat, 16 of them saturated. That's almost three-fourths of the recommended daily intake for saturated fat. The same amount of salmon gives you 34 grams of protein and 18 grams of fat, 4 of them saturated. A cup of cooked lentils has 18 grams of protein, but under 1 gram of fat."

Thus, when shopping for protein-rich groceries, look for vegetable sources, such as beans, nuts, and whole grains, as they are often low in saturated fat and offer healthy fiber, vitamins, and minerals. If you're looking for an animal source, stick with fish and poultry.