08/10/09 Katie's Healthy Eating Journal: Monday

Maybe one of you can clue me in on the joy of protein shakes?

Aren't they more for endurance athletes and body builders?  I realize they are to provide nourishment for the muscles and a drink is usually easier than eating a whole meal.  That I truly understand.  But, it seems that the average "gym goer" or someone who has worked with a trainer swears by these protein shakes for weight loss.  Many of the searches I have done point to not enough research on this topic to suggest positive confirmation on weight loss.  In fact, what I read was that intense exercise was the most appropriate for protein shakes.  According to a health and fitness expert on MSN she wrote, "Extra protein does not automatically make extra muscle.  In fact, if you eat more protein than your body uses, it will be stored as fat."  She goes on to say that people probably don't need all the added protein, and if they do it should be from real food groups, not supplements.  Hmmmm so eating veggies, sunflower seeds, almonds, fruits, or peanut butter are better options than drinking a protein shake?  Maybe this blog will spark controversy but that is what I want.  I want to hear your opinions and what you have read.  Too many criticize me for not eating enough protein in my diet but obviously what I am doing works...for me.  What is working for you?

Check in tomorrow to read another "horror" story from when I was bigger...

Weight - 117.0 lbs.

Exercise - None

MONDAY

Breakfast - 

2 Kashi Honey Grain Waffles with 5 small strawberries sliced on top

1/2 cup fat-free organic milk

Lunch - 

DINED OUT

Approximately 2 oz. grilled chicken on romaine salad

Sprinkle of Mozzarella Cheese

No Dressing

1/2 Pretzel Bread

Snack - 

Banana

6 oz. fat-free yogurt

Dinner - 

1 cup Stuffed Chicken/Mozzarella Stuffed Tortellini (320 cal, 7g fat)

Splash of Spray Butter and Parmesan Cheese

Salad (Mixed greens, tomato, croutons)

2 tbsp. light ranch

Snack - 

Healthy Choice Fudge Bar (80 cal, 1g fat)