Protein is an important component of every cell in the body. It is an organic compound, composed of 22 amino acids, otherwise known as the building blocks of life. Protein is stored in muscles and organs, and the body utilizes it to build and repair tissues, as well as for the production of enzymes and hormones. Protein also makes it possible for blood to carry oxygen throughout the body. Along with fat and carbohydrates, protein is a “macronutrient,” meaning the body needs relatively large amounts of it. The Institute of Medicine of the National Academy of Sciences has concluded that our daily protein requirements should be 10 percent to 35 percent of our total caloric intake, with men needing slightly more than women. A lack of protein can cause loss of muscle mass, decreased immunity, as well as weakening of the heart and respiratory system.

Consider the source

You can obtain healthy sources of protein without high levels of saturated fat. For example, soybeans, nuts and whole grains provide protein without much saturated fat and offer plenty of healthful fiber and micronutrients as well.

If you’re looking for yet another great way to obtain healthy protein, vegetable sources of protein found in Herbalife’s Formula 1 shakes, are high quality and have lower calorie levels with virtually no added fat. Herbalife® products personalize your daily protein intake to match your body’s needs. With a variety of shakes and snacks, Herbalife’s weight-management program helps you build or maintain lean muscle while providing healthy weight-management support.

The following is a list of foods and their protein content in grams:

DAIRY PRODUCTS

• Egg whites: 7 whites = 25 grams
• Cottage cheese (nonfat): 1 cup = 28 grams
• Mozzarella cheese (nonfat): one 1-ounce stick = 8 grams
• Yogurt (nonfat, sugar-free): one 6-ounce carton = 5 grams
• Yogurt (nonfat, plain): 1 cup = 14 grams
• Milk (nonfat): 1 cup = 10 grams

MEATS

• Beef (lean): 3 ounces (cooked weight) = 25 grams
• Chicken breast: 3 ounces (cooked weight) = 25 grams
• Turkey breast: 3 ounces (cooked weight) = 25 grams
• Turkey ham: 4 ounces (cooked weight) = 18 grams
• Pork tenderloin: 3 ounces (cooked weight) = 24 grams

FISH

• Ocean-caught fish: 4 ounces (cooked weight) = 25 to 31 grams
• Shrimp, crab, lobster: 4 ounces (cooked weight) = 22 to 24 grams
• Tuna: 4 ounces (water packed) = 27 grams
• Scallops: 4 ounces (cooked weight) = 25 grams

BEANS, LENTILS AND GRAINS

• Beans (black, pinto, etc.): 1⁄2 cup (cooked) = 7 grams
• Lentils: 1⁄2 cup (cooked) = 9 grams
• Quinoa: 1⁄2 cup (cooked) = 6 grams
• Tofu: 1⁄4 block = 7 grams
• Veggie burger: one burger = 5 to 20 grams (varies by brand)
Note: Some ready-to-eat cereals are also good protein sources. Check labels–some have more than 10 grams of protein per serving.

In addition, you can purchase the following Herbalife high-protein snack products from our online store:

Visit us for more information on how you can incorporate the Herbalife products into your own healthy and active lifestyle.

Tags: Protein, weight management program, Daily Health Tip, daily protein intake, Herbalife Protein Powder

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