Protein – it comes all different shapes and sizes and can be consumed for various reasons.
At birth we need protein to build essential amino acids that are necessary for growth. And as we grow older, along with carbohydrates and fats, protein is one of the three fundamental nutrients needed in large amounts for healthy muscle formation and a strong metabolism. These three food types are better known as macronutrients.
If you are an active person, protein should be one of your dearest, most frequently visited friends. It is vital for muscle regeneration and growth (or hypertrophy) and, when consumed in correct quantities, can help weight loss. There are so many sources of protein to choose from. You can get it synthesized in the form of whey or casein, naturally from foods such as meat, eggs and tuna, or in meal replacements like bars and shakes.
Why Jerky is a Great Source of Protein
So what about jerky as a source of good clean protein?
Jerky, when made correctly, checks most of the criteria for a healthy snack: it contains lean meat, is trimmed of bad fats, is high in protein, is able to be stored for convenience and an active lifestyle – and it’s tasty too! But most jerkies are highly processed and filled with preservatives and sodium and some companies scrimp on the quality of the meat to save a buck. Yet some gourmet jerky producers are going against the grain, selecting the finest quality meats for their health-savvy client base. KRAVE Gourmet Jerky is one of those companies.
KRAVE Gourmet Jerky is gluten-free, and a healthier protein-based option that is an ideal candidate for those of us with dynamic routines. While some of us live close enough to the gym to have a freshly cooked home meal directly after our workout, many of us can’t afford such a luxury. This is why a quick snack post-workout is usually our best option for consuming the correct amount of protein. While good protein shakes can be great and particular meal replacements could get the job done, some of us are looking for a more substantial alternative.
How Much Protein Do We Need Each Day?
In our quest to eat a nutritious diet, we are searching for healthier substitutes than processed food and unhealthy quick fixes. Remember that while a sufficient amount of protein is important for our diet, muscle growth and building a lean body, protein in excess can be detrimental to our health. All we need is 5 to 10% of total calories from protein per day.
Here’s a quick lesson in muscle growth.
When you work out, your muscle fiber tears (we’re talking here about skeletal muscles of course, you wouldn’t want to tear your heart – a cardiac muscle). When you finish lifting those pounds, your body naturally starts to repair itself by replacing damaged muscle fibers. Muscle fibers are then fused together to form new muscle protein strands, also known as myofibrils. The need for our macronutrient here is essential, as protein is the key contributor for muscle hypertrophy.
If your body breaks down more protein than it synthesizes, muscle growth is unlikely. The best thing you can do for your muscles post-workout is therefore sufficient rest and providing adequate fuel for growth and regeneration. So, how can you consume enough fuel? Easy, eat enough macronutrients for your body type and fitness goals.
Why Krave Jerky is my preferred Jerky of Choice
KRAVE is naturally packed with protein. The jerky is also made with no artificial flavours and no added preservatives (other than those naturally occurring in the ingredients). Unlike other jerky, KRAVE Gourmet Jerky is carefully double marinated then baked to lock in moisture. As it isn’t dried or dehydrated, like the usual jerky method, what you get is a tender and soft texture. This is worlds apart from typical jerky that can be tasteless, hard, tough and chewy.
Another thing that sets KRAVE apart from other producers of jerky is its selection of meat. The meat used to produce KRAVE Jerky is lean, which means it is low in fat. It actually lies at under 90 calories per serving, as well as containing at least 30% less sodium than the leading beef jerky (per 28g serving).
Lean beef and pork is a great source of unprocessed, natural protein. When you select the right cut of beef or pork, it contains a high percent of protein and will also cut down the amount of bad fats and cholesterol. But let’s be honest, finding a good source for lean beef or pork is difficult and we’re not going out every night for a prime cut of wagyu sirloin just to get our protein fix for the day. We’re a mobile generation, on the move and living in the moment and while we strive for three balanced meals every day, sometimes we have to skip one (or all three) of them to succeed at our jobs and have fun in our very social lives.
Pre and Post-Workout Snack – try jerky 90 to 120 minutes before you train
Because KRAVE Gourmet Jerky is high in protein, it is also the smart choice for a pre or post workout snack. Chow some gourmet jerky before you hit the gym to get that extra kick of energy. Or even throughout the day to keep you fuller for longer. Remember that when you feel full, you eat less, which usually results in creating a leaner physique. Snacking on high protein lean meats after your workout will also help to increase muscle growth, particularly after some heavy lifting. It is a healthier option than most isolates and concentrates.
The best thing about KRAVE is that it tastes like it belongs on a gourmet charcuterie board. You can enjoy KRAVE jerky as a quick snack or a break time treat, without worrying about your waist line. And there are multiple flavor profiles to try out ranging from sweet and tangy to savory and spicy, fulfilling even the most discerning palate. It’s also perfect for cheat days. It can be a great companion to a glass of your favorite beverage. Why not invite your friends over for a jerky and wine pairing?
Whether you’re having a mid-morning energizer, powering up for an evening gym session, mellowing out after hitting the powder or just sitting quietly with a glass of Pinot, KRAVE Jerky will sort out your protein fix in the tastiest way.
This post is sponsored by KRAVE. The opinions and views are wholly my own…
And to be absolutely clear, this is my disclaimer: “Just so you know, I have been compensated to share my ideas on this topic. Sometimes it is in the form of products, or services or even money… But here’s the thing; I won’t share anything with you that I don’t fully support. It doesn’t matter what it is, or how much they are willing to give me, if I don’t believe in it, It won’t be on my site. Seriously. You’ll just have to trust me on this.” ~ Coach Moose
from Dai Manuel: The Moose is Loose http://ift.tt/2c1ZZLC
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