Protein and Carbohydrates: The Perfect Couple

(Special Thanks to Frank who Encouraged me to write this article)

Sweet and Savory
Carbohydrates. Most of us have a relationship with carbohydrates. We are no stranger to warm flour tortillas, savory corn chips, mouth-watering desserts, bread, cereal, and our favorite flavored beverages. The key is to have protein with our carbs, and eat often, as our bodies crave to be fed every few hours in order to function optimally.

What Exactly is a Protein vs. a Carbohydrate?
Foods high in protein include meats, eggs, cottage cheese, nuts, seeds and beans. Foods high in carbs include desserts, bread, fruit, rice, corn, cereal, tomato, tortillas and potatoes. Carbohydrates are also found in a tall glass of your favorite juice or alcoholic beverage.

Balance Your Carbohydrates with Protein
Carbohydrates break down into sugar, and if they are not burned off right away, they turn into fat. Yes, a certain amount of fat is essential for the human body to function. The problem is, however, when we have a glass of juice, a piece of fruit, candy bar, or a bag of chips by themselves, it causes the pancreas to overcompensate by secreting large amounts of insulin. With an overabundance of insulin secreted, many people experience a surge, otherwise known as a “sugar high”, followed by a lack of energy. Over time, we may become desensitized to the sugar highs, yet wonder why we don’t “feel” healthy.

So, what is the solution? For every serving of carbohydrates, take in a serving of protein, and eat every 3-4 hours. This includes meal-time and snack-time. Add meat to your salads. Spread some peanut or almond butter on your toast. Have a handful of almonds with your cake. Over the past 2 years, I’ve established a habit of carrying a bag of almonds or walnuts in my purse and car, so that I always have protein on-hand. Mixed nuts are also a great snack in between meals.

Eat Every 3-4 Hours
The human body is a brilliantly made machine. When we skip meals, the balance of our blood sugar is negatively impacted, and the body goes into self-preservation mode. This means that the next meal we take in will be mostly stored, for fear of not knowing when it will eat again. Over time, this may result in weight gain, inflammation, and an overall, internal imbalance. The right response is to consistently eat every 3-4 hours. Please note that I am promoting having meals/snacks every few hours, not grazing throughout the day. Hungry at bedtime? Six or seven almonds are a perfect bedtime snack.

What Kind of Results are Possible?
By following this plan, you may discover a positive impact on your waistline as well as improved and balanced moods. Consuming protein with your carbohydrates also slows the aging process from the inside out, because the body isn’t experiencing as much stress.

Where do I Begin?
Keeping a daily food journal can be very helpful. In writing down everything you eat and drink, it is easier to track and be mindful of your ratio of protein:carbs. This is NOT a diet. We are not taking anything away from your regime, simply adding protein and increasing frequency of meals. Remember, consistency is key.