If you decide that you want to take your health into your own hands, that means you should be viewing food as medicine. With this in mind, you will be inspired by creatives ways to give your scalp and hair fuel they need to thrive. Not to mention, your body. And one of these fueling components is protein.

Regardless of your lifestyle or hair goals, everyone can take advantage of choosing adequate protein sources. Here’s why protein matters, and 3 snacks to make sure you’re getting a sufficient amount in your diet.

Why It’s Important To Eat Protein Foods

Skin, muscles, bones, and cartilage are always regenerating. Without protein, they won’t be able to rebuild these components. Boosting your hair’s protein level increases its elasticity, which makes it easier to style, and more lively. Think about this when you’re reaching for that bag of chips. Instead, opt for protein snacks that help make your hair and skin healthier.

Moreover, skin and nails are mostly comprised of protein. Not only that, but protein is what the body uses to repair itself. Only half of the protein you eat is used by the body to make enzymes that create new cells and digest food. Consequently, protein foods and snacks are super important for a healthy body.

How Much Protein Is Necessary To Flourish?

If you are a vegan or vegetarian, don’t be what you read about not needing protein. In fact, you should be consuming a minimum of 0.8 grams per your body weight. Other factors to keep in mind is your age, daily activities, and lifestyle. They all play a role in determining the right amount of protein for each person.

3 Protein Rich Snacks To Eat For Healthy Hair and Skin

Keep in mind that snacks are just that and are meant to be eaten in between meals.

• Chia Pudding
• Canned Salmon
• Cottage Cheese

Let’s inspect all three!

Chia Pudding

Chia pudding is a highly nutritious snack and has become a popular trend. In fact, two tablespoons of chia seeds is an excellent source of magnesium, vitamin B1, fiber, calcium, protein, iron, and several other important minerals and vitamins. This means that one ounce of chia seeds contains almost 5 grams of protein! Plus, there’s a large variety of antioxidants.

Canned Salmon

Unlike mackerel, tuna, and swordfish, canned salmon is considered to be relatively low in mercury. It’s also low in calories, high in protein and provides nutritional benefits like iron, niacin, B6, B12, and vitamin D.

Salmon is also known for its anti-inflammatory properties, ability to increase heart health, and contains a high level of omega-3 fatty acids. Given that it’s fully cooked, you can also enjoy a long shelf life making it readily available.

Cottage Cheese

Compared to other cheeses, cottage cheese is relatively low in calories, and contains a load of protein. Packed with B12 and calcium, it’s a notable treat that can be topped with nuts, fruits, and other nutrients. Cottage cheese also contains selenium, potassium, vitamin A, and phosphorous. If you prefer low fat, one cup contains 185 calories and 25 grams of protein.

Want Healthy Hair and Skin?

One of the best ways to achieve healthy hair and skin is a healthy diet. As the saying goes, ‘we are what we eat’. So put good in and you’re get good out. This includes your hair, skin, and body. So, don’t reach for Ben & Jerry to comfort you, reach for a protein packed snack instead.

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