The Power of Protein in Pregnancy.

Revealing my protein obsession has never been a secret, and I take every opportunity to boast about its benefits. Since transitioning to a high-protein diet about a decade ago, I've experienced my desired results aesthetically but, to my surprise, also helped to beat cravings (somewhat). Despite avoiding red meat jsut as personal preference, I've discovered a plethora of protein-rich food options that keep me satisfied.

As many of you are aware, I'm currently 21 weeks pregnant with my second child. My first pregnancy was an absolute breeze with no cravings, illness, nausea or exhaustion. This time around, it’s a completely different story. I don’t know if it’s because I’m a toddler mom and constantly tired, or that it’s my second, or that it’s a girl, or that I’m now over 35 (so they consider me high risk!!) but whatever it is… I’ve felt rotten for a bulk of it! I’m now over half way and slowly starting to feel my energy return (or at least in the mornings haha) So, in the upcoming trimesters of my pregnancy, my primary goal is to diligently meet my daily protein target, recognizing its crucial role during this period.

Let me share some interesting facts I acquired through my nutrition studies and own personal journey that reinforce my love for all things protein. Protein plays a vital role in every living cell of the human body, forming the foundation of our skin, hair, muscles, tendons, bones, and teeth. It even contributes to disease-fighting antibodies and enzymes facilitating chemical reactions. Additionally, protein produces the hormone glucagon, releasing stored energy when needed. Can I get an Amen for that?

Categorically, protein falls into two groups: Complete and Incomplete. While meats, fish, poultry, eggs, dairy, and soya beans offer complete protein, cereals, legumes, fruits, and vegetables provide incomplete proteins.

In the realm of protein, the term "amino acids" often surfaces. Proteins consist of long chains of amino acids, with 20 different types, both essential and non-essential, making up the proteins in our bodies. Essential amino acids, including isoleucine, leucine, lysine, methionine, phenylalanine, threonine, tryptophan, and valine, must be sourced from our diet. Once protein breaks down, its component amino acids enter the bloodstream and are utilized as needed. Since there's no long-term storage for unused proteins, excess is excreted in urine. The recommended protein intake is roughly 0.8g - 1g per pound of body weight. Do a quick mental calculation now… how many meals do you eat pre day? Are you taking in enough protein at each meal? Most aren’t.

For those seeking a fast, convenient protein boost, protein shakes offer a tasty alternative to traditional protein sources like tuna, chicken, or salmon. However, it's essential to research and choose wisely, considering the variety of available options. Other foods I eat regularly to hit my protein goals are: yoghurts, nuts, seeds, eggs, cottage cheese, quinoa, edmame and of course the typical sources such as chicken, fish, seafood, turkey etc.