Protein is one of the body's three primary nutrients. On a micro level, protein is a primary building block to keep cells and tissues strong. These little building blocks are called amino acids. Amino acids are vital for the body's continual basic functioning and regulation processes. The body produces some of its own amino acids and must obtain the remainder of the food.

Up to a third of our diet should be protein which is macronutrient found in plant foods, meat and dairy. Proteins are made up of a variety of smaller amino acids, defined depending on the source from which they are found.

Protein is essential for the body's energy uses. It helps strengthen muscle and certain other bodily tissue and ensure that DNA and genes are expressing themselves properly throughout the body. It is closest to what we call direct "full" for our bodies.

Recommended Daily Intake: up to 70 grams per day

These are common symptoms as a result of having too little protein in the diet:

• Feeling jittery
  • Feeling weak
  • Inability to concentrate
  • Weight loss
  • Fatigue
  • Sugar cravings
  • Pallid complexion
  • Anemia
  • Changes in hair color or texture

With today's high-protein, low-carb fad diets, it's also possible to have too much protein in the diet. Symptoms include:

• Lethargy
  • Constipation
  • Dehydration
  • Weight gain
  • Feeling heavy and bloated 
  • Sugar cravings
  • Tight or stiff joints
  • Bad breath
  • Strong body odor
  • Acid imbalance
  • Decline in kidney function due to stress of processing excess proteins

Delicious, lean protein sources include wild Alaskan salmon, grass-fed beef, lentils, beans, hummus, nuts and seeds. Summer is a perfect time to grille out your favorite protein sources!

If you're still lacking protein or don't eat meat, a great supplement is Purium's amino acids. You take them throughout the day with meals to get your body functioning to its optimal potential. Details below and contact me for more info! 

*Information from the International Association for Wellness Professionals.

We all want to feel good and have the energy to live the best life possible. So what areas of our life do we need to check in with to see where we are imbalanced? Below is a check list to start looking at all aspects of your life and find ways to start enhancing your schedule for a more energetic you!

1) How much sleep have you gotten lately?

• Sleep is an important part of your daily cycle and helps to recharge your body and mind each night. The optimal time for sleep is from 10 pm-6 am. When we go to bed after 10 pm, your body finds its second wave of energy and relaxation becomes more difficult.   
• Start going to bed 15 minutes earlier each night, turn off the TV or electronics at least an hour before bed and drink      some warm herbal tea or water to help your body/mind relax.

2) What kind of movement have you done lately?

• Movement throughout your day is key to keep the mind and body fresh, alert and happy! Park further away in the parking lot, take a walk at lunch or even doing a few stairs will help you get movement throughout your day.
• What is one thing you can do right now for movement?

3) What have you eaten or drank lately?

• There are foods that can increase or decrease your energy. We know the key ones like fruits and vegetables for energy boost compared to sugar and processed foods for decrease in energy boost but we can also look at whole grains, healthy fats and some protein (depending on your body) for a pick me up during the day or at lunch.
• Starting your day with a warm glass of lemon water or two 8 ounce glasses of water can help jump start your day in a fresh way! 
• Make sure to amp up the water intake and notice the difference between physical and mental hunger. Sometimes all our body needs is a boost of hydration.
• Look at what time your energy runs out during the day and what you're craving at that time. Maybe replace the afternoon sweet with some carrots or a piece of fruit.

Take time to listen to your body, what it needs and know that life is a balance. Remember to get the most important vitamin, Vitamin J(oy)!