30-Day Protein Challenge

It feels good to be back to blogging (still weird, but good). The last time I blogged, I was finishing up my senior year at UNI. While a lot has changed over time, the biggest change has been my interest in fitness. Now that is weird! I had always believed the best way to get in shape and lose weight is to diet and eat nothing but salad. Wrong. I used to hate running, absolutely hate it. Now, I "crave" to go run for 2-3 miles around town. I hit the gym and lift weights. I eat, and I eat a lot. Results? A happier and healthier me.

While I continue my quest to be happier and healthier, I came across this 30-Day Protein Challenge. The staff in the building at work (Iowa Beef Industry Council and Iowa Cattlemen's Association) have joined forces to take part in the challenge. Here is some information about the challenge:

It's for anyone! It's a fun, step-by-step way to get an optimal amount of protein throughout the day. Significant research shows that people looking to lose or maintain a healthy weight (ME!), support a healthy metabolism (ME!) and/or age more vibrantly (who wouldn't?) may benefit from consuming a balanced amount of high-quality protein, within calorie goals. It's a great way to take control of your appetite (stop mid-morning and mid-afternoon snacking!).

By participating in this protein challenge, I am working my way up to eating 30 grams of protein at every meal for one month. I compare it to training for a marathon or 5k. You don't get off the couch and jump into running 3 miles. You work your way to that point. That's what this challenge is all about. It provides the stepping stones to work your way to eating 30g of protein 3 times a day.

The first 5 days of the challenge is easy. I journal. I write down everything I eat and drink, and the amount of protein it contains. This is a great way to see where you are lacking protein throughout the day. For me, I lack protein in the morning- the most important meal of the day (oops!).

The start of day 3... I need more protein!

I'm very excited to see what the rest of this challenge brings. Don't worry, you can join me too! Sign up online at www.beefitswhatsfordinner.com/proteinchallenge. There are great tools and resources including a calendar, journal and protein snack ideas.

Follow me as I share my journey @brookeyoung23 #proteinchallenge

Challenge accepted!