Your body, for a number of important functions, requires protein. It forms the building blocks of hormones and enzymes and is also vital for growth and repair of the body. The Food Standards Agency recommends that 15% of the calories that we consume should come from protein sources. These may be either animal or plant based, or a mixture of the two. For most adults, a protein intake of 1g per kg of body weight is sufficient to meet daily requirements. Therefore, if you weigh 70kg an intake of 70g protein is sufficient.
The Carbs & Cals & Fat & Protein book makes counting the amount of protein in your diet easy. By selecting your food and drink portions for the day, you can easily see your intake. The pictures below show 2 different lunch options; one is low in protein and one much higher. If you are trying to boost your protein intake, option 2 would be the best choice:
Both books contain lots more useful information on recommended daily intakes. Carbs & Cals gives additional information about carbohydrate counting and diabetes, while Carbs & Cals & Protein & Fat focuses on healthy eating and weight loss guidelines, as well as some top tips on nutrition and weight control.
