What is protein and why do our bodies need it?
Food trends are not a new thing. Paleo, Keto, Lean, plant-based etc. are all terms that we’ve heard of, yet how many of us really understand the role that protein plays in our lives? How much do we really need and where should we be getting our protein from?
Depending on the weight and activity level of an average adult, the protein needs vary between 42-58 grams of protein per day. For example, a cup of quinoa has about 8g of protein, a chicken breast about 27g of protein, and 2 tablespoons of cricket powder blended into your favorite smoothie has 20g of protein.
Protein is a macronutrient that our bodies need for many reasons. A macronutrient is a type of food that is needed in large quantities in our diet.
Protein is virtually found everywhere throughout the body—in muscle, bone, skin, hair, and basically every other body part or tissue. It makes up the enzymes that power many chemical reactions and the hemoglobin that carries oxygen in your blood. At least 10,000 different proteins make you what you are and keep you that way.
To decide where you should get your necessary protein from, ask yourself a few questions. How is this protein source raised/grown? How many resources are required to raise/grow the protein source- land, feed, water? What is the carbon footprint or foodprint of each protein source?
Keep in mind, edible crickets are ethically farmed, one of the cleanest sources of protein, and use way less land, feed and water than any other protein source!