This week’s BetterFood BetterFit, fat loss class was dedicated to understanding the basics of nutrition.

What is the difference between the macronutrients, fat, protein and carbohydrates? Having a better understand of what you are putting in your body and why makes choosing the healthier option a whole lot easier.  We talked a lot about how to take this knowledge and fit it into real life.

Here are some of the questions you asked and my best answers.

We learned that… lean Proteins are the building blocks for our muscles and a critical component of a healthy diet, especially when trying to lose fat and body weight.

You asked…Are packaged egg whites a smart choice?

My answer….Yes. Egg whites contain all of the protein and none of the fat in whole eggs. You can easily substitute liquid egg whites instead of having to separate eggs and waste the yolk for a healthy breakfast or other dish. With no cholesterol egg whites are a great stand in for regular eggs when you what some extra lean protein.

According to a Cook’s Illustrated kitchen test Eggology all-natural egg whites whip up most like real whites for use in cooking. Egg beaters brand are also pure egg whites and taste like the real thing.  I use one real egg and a serving of whites, plus a ton of veggies, when I make my morning scramble.

You asked…What is the difference between Complete and Incomplete proteins and how to I make sure I’m eating the right stuff?
My answer...If you are eating a healthy diet of unprocessed foods, fruits, veggies, beans and whole grains you are getting an adequate amount of protein in your diet. Just about every food contains some protein. Complete proteins contain all of the amino acids our body needs to function and incomplete proteins do not. Just because they are incomplete doesn't mean they are bad! They will just work best when combined with the missing ingredients elsewhere in your diet. No need to worry too much unless you are an athlete with a veggie only diet and want to ensure adequate fuel for recovery. For more resources check out http://www.precisionnutrition.com/all-about-protein and
http://remywright.blogspot.com/2012/09/you-complete-me-how-to-get-most-out-of.html

You asked…How can I get a protein serving fast and first thing in the morning without cooking?

My answer…cook once a week and whip up a batch of yummy, simple protein bars to suit your taste. You can add just about any healthy thing you like and they’ll last all week. Here’s a favorite of mine...

http://remywright.blogspot.com/2012/09/my-favorite-homemade-protein-bar-recipe.html

You asked… What is a yummy and easy protein-rich snack that can be made ahead of time to take to work?

My answer…Who doesn’t love muffins?!!?

http://remywright.blogspot.com/2012/09/meat-muffins.html

You asked…How do I know what I serving size really looks like?

My answer...Check out these charts for something that works for you. Go ahead and print them out for quick reference.

http://remywright.blogspot.com/2012/09/guides-to-portion-sizes-get-it-right.html

You asked…What’s the best option for salad dressing?

Over the weekend, check out “Pushups for Pizza” my dear friend and foodie inspiration, Angela, and her awesome new blog for the most delicious recipes!

http://pushupsforpizza.com/