Welcome back to another Monday everyone!
Today's topic is going to be based around the importance, in my eyes, of consuming "quality" protein sources and even more specifically a quality "animal" protein sources.
How do we buy or source quality animal proteins as part of our diet and why does doing so make such a dramatic difference in the way our bodies feel, process and digest?
Before we dive to far into this topic, I want to make one thing very clear. I do understand that consuming quality meats regularly can be somewhat expensive, especially for the majority of my Puerto Rican clients, due to lack of farming and availability. HOWEVER, I need to make it just as clear that my stance on the importance of source and quality remains the same, no matter what. Lets just say this, if you can afford material items, gifts and trinkets that you purchase on amazon or at Walmart on a daily or weekly basis and you cannot "afford" to eat quality protein, then guess what? I am here to ask you one thing. How much is your life worth and that of your families?
I simply ask, that after reading this, just think about it. Assess for yourself if your priorities may be in the wrong place. It is my job to suggest to you that your medical bill down the road might be a whole lot more expensive than that 100% grass-fed or wild caught animal protein that you just WON'T spend the extra money on... please think about it. That being said, let's continue shall we? :)
Factory farming, is a modern way agriculture has kept up with the demand for a high-use of animal protein in food items. It’s a scale that mass-produces animal proteins for the least amount of money possible. This process does not take into consideration the wellbeing or welfare of the animals being produced or humans consuming these animal proteins.Lets just break it down very easily. Animals not fed their natural diet, such as a diet with grain, soy, and antibiotics may increase stress hormones & increase pro-inflammatory fats in the in the body of the animal and then on to us, the consumer. Aside from those very important risk factors, there are obvious ethical, moral, and humane issues associated with animal protein production and also climate and environmental issues that are very clear as well. It’s in our power as consumers to support outlets and methods that are more sustainable and ethical, as much as possible. The very bottom line here guys and gals is if at all possible, budget yourself appropriately and opt for animal proteins that are sourced ethically and humanely raised — from a health, ethical, and environmental standpoint.Something else I would really like to touch on that would help both your pocket AND your gut is the QUANTITY of animal protein being consumed by us "Westerners" is FAR to great in my opinion. Obviously, protein portion sizes will vary depending on the individual and their size and goals. But a basic and simple "rule of thumb" is to have some type of quality protein at each meal to keep you energized & satiated (whether that be wild caught cod, pasture raised eggs or freshly ground peanut butter) . Contrary to popular belief, protein does NOT need to make up the majority of your plate at each meal. In opposition, frequently consuming large amounts of animal protein in one sitting can have an adverse effect on ones digestive system, as even quality animal protein takes ample time for the digestive tract to thoroughly breakdown and process for our bodies to use, more so than that of our friends fruits & veggies. Now that you know some of the many reasons as to WHY, here comes the how. When shopping, stick to the animal proteins labeled with: Organic, 100% grass-fed, wild-caught, sustainable, humanely raised. If you’re purchasing from the butcher counter, ask them about the sourcing and share specifics of what you’re looking for so you get the best quality. Another option is to look for companies who are making it simple for consumers to support better practices such as Butcher Box, Vital Choice, Applegate Farms, Eat Wild & more! At the end of the day, let us, as consumers be conscious of the source of animal proteins we are consuming, how the animal was raised, treated, and the quality of the meat, eggs or dairy. When in doubt, research the supplier, get to know the sources and be AWARE of what we are putting into your body and that of your family as well.It’s not about following a strict way of eating or judgement, it is just about awareness. We’re all different and deserve to consume food in a way that best serves our unique long-term health and I hope this was of help to some of you. Even better, would be to forward this message on to those people whom YOU know, are not making themselves aware of what they are putting into their bodies and the negatives short term and long term side effects that they may be unknowingly experiencing now OR may be in for down the road. This journey to health and wellness is an always evolving, always learning, never ending process, that we should embrace and get excited to "geek out" about!! ;) If not, this is what you have me for every Monday! Questions/comments/concerns? As always, shoot those my way! Have a fantastic week everybody! Crush it!
