Preparing healthy, well-balanced meals is important.  Protein is part of a well-balanced diet and should come from a variety of lean sources for the most health benefit.  Many people choose to get protein from meat, but beans, eggs, nuts, and dairy products also provide protein.  You can also see more on easy recipes with pictures. Here are some facts to help you choose the best way to get protein.

Serving Size

Protein is essential for building and repairing cells.  We cannot grow without it.  One serving of meat should be the size of the person’s palm and about as thick.  That is all that is needed at one meal.  Eat 1-2 portions of meat per day and also try to get protein from other sources every day.

Beef

Red meat is high in saturated fats and can be difficult to digest.  Eating red meat everyday can increase risk of heart disease, high cholesterol, and colon cancer.  Beef portions should be kept small.  Avoid eating beef everyday.  If you do eat a lot of beef, make sure to eat plenty of fiber to help keep your digestive tract healthy.

Pork

The other white meat is flavorful but can be high in fat.  Many pork products like ham and bacon are processed and high in sodium.  When choosing pork, opt for unprocessed, lean cuts and add flavor yourself.  Be sure to cook pork thoroughly. And you can also prepare crock pot recipes.

Chicken

Chicken is readily available and a healthy meat to eat.  Chicken is low in fat naturally and can be prepared in many delicious ways.  It is also easy to use up a whole chicken, bones and all, so there are less unused parts of the animal.  Leftover chicken can also be used in soups, stews, salads, and sandwiches.