Why A Healthy Diet Should Contain Protein

A healthy diet should include a balanced level of protein. Protein is essential to the health and vitality of our bodies. There are many sources of protein. We usually think of getting are protein from meat. This source of protein however, should be eaten in small amounts. A great source of protein that is less well known is nuts and seeds.

These are not widely used in many peoples diets but, they should be, because nuts and seeds are the most natural source of protein. As well as a good source of protein, nuts and seeds are a rich source of essential fatty acids. These are the good fats, not the bad fats such as saturated fat. When people hear the words fat they immediately think of putting on weight. However, you do not put on weight by eating good fat, actually essential fatty acids can help you lose weight.

Seeds and nuts are highly nutritious and contain the vitamins A, B, C and E. They also contain amino acids that help with the bodies digestive system. These amazing foods also contain minerals such as magnesium, zinc and selenium.

As these natural foods are very nutritious you can eat them in small quantities. One teaspoon taken every day is sufficient. Seeds and nuts are very versatile to eat as you can eat them on their own as a healthy snack. They can also be used as a garnish for salads. You can crush them up and sprinkle them over your breakfast porridge oats or cereal. You can mix nuts into bread to give the bread more flavour and texture.

Nuts and seeds can be hard on the teeth which may be unsuitable for people with dentures or weak teeth. However, there is a way around this problem. Try soaking the seeds and nuts in a bowl of warm water for a couple of hours. Once you the drain the nuts and seeds they will become soft enough to chew and you will have the peace of mind knowing that they will not damage your dentures.

Nuts are also great with deserts especially with soft creamy toppings. Almonds work particularly well. You can buy them already sliced and you just sprinkle them over your dessert topping to add a little texture and crunch.

There are many varieties of nuts to choose from. Particularly good ones are watermelon seeds, sunflower seeds, sesame seeds and pumpkin seeds. For nuts, try cashews, brazil nuts, pecan and walnuts.

If you have a health condition or food allergy seek the advice of a doctor before changing your diet.

By: Sarah Woodbridge

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Sarah Woodbridge has been writing articles for over 2 years on subjects she cares greatly about. Check out her new website that discusses toddler travel bed and sorelle toddler bed products and accessories.