Comments on: Quick & Healthy Protein-Packed Meals

By: Janie M

Janie M — Thu, 30 Dec 2010 02:00:15 +0000

LOVE the mini-crustless quiche idea! I had never thought of that… I’m running into the kitchen right now to make some. Great info on the nuts too… i had no idea. I had been making a mixture of pine, pumpkin, and sunflower nuts as a snack. I put a 1/4 cup in a snack-ziploc bag and that’s my allotment for the day. I do get healthy fats from this, but now i understand it probably doesn’t offset the higher caloric intake! I’m keeping several yogurts in the breakroom fridge now too!

By: Nicole

Nicole — Mon, 09 Aug 2010 09:52:42 +0000

Connie, that’s a great question! Nuts are often grouped with protein sources because they do contain some protein. They are not on my list, however, because they also contain a lot of fat. In fact, the majority of calories that nuts provide come from these fats, so I actually consider them a “fat” over a “protein”. This high percentage of fat calories makes nuts a very calorie-dense food and thus difficult to consume when you are trying to cut calories and lose weight (unless you are VERY careful about portion sizes). Don’t get me wrong – nuts are absolutely a healthy addition to your diet and the fats they contain are highly nutritious. Yet when it comes to choosing lean protein options, you’re better off sticking with lowfat yogurt and eggs. Think of nuts as a compliment to your main meal and really watch your portions. Once you reach your goal weight (or if you’re already there), you can add larger quantities of healthy fats (like nuts) without worrying about the extra calories.

By: Connie

Connie — Sun, 08 Aug 2010 01:24:28 +0000

Hi Nicole, Aren’t nuts such as walnuts, almonds, and pecans, considered a protein source? I noticed you didn’t include them in your lean protein source list. Would you explain?