We all need protein, but how much is enough? Most people, ages 9 and older, should eat 5 to 7 ounces of protein foods each day, depending on overall calorie needs.

What counts as an ounce of protein foods? 

• 1 ounce lean meat, poultry, or seafood
• 1 egg
• 1⁄4 cup cooked beans or peas
• 1⁄2 ounce nuts or seeds
• 1 tablespoon peanut butter

It may seem hard to get protein in your diet, but we are here to share a few tips.

Try mixing up your proteins throughout the week.  Add seafood, beans, nuts, seeds, soy, eggs, lean meats, and poultry to your menu.  Choose lean or low fat cuts of meat like round or sirloin and ground beef that is at least 90% lean. Trim or drain fat from meat and remove poultry skin. Next, pull out the slow cooker. Lean meats need slow, moist cooking to be tender—and delicious – and the crock pot can save you time as well as money.