Let’s be honest - no one ever craves protein powder? Right? When is the last time you sat down and thought, “Hmmm… I could really go for some protein powder right about now!”
So it may be kind of weird to hear about protein powder from an intuitive eating dietitian. But here’s the deal - I’m an intuitive eating dietitian specializing in athletic performance. So while we frequently discuss listening to honoring cravings in my virtual private practice, we also discuss how to ensure we are getting the right nutrients to support awesome athletic performance, recovery and muscle growth.
Which brings me back to today’s topic… protein powder.
Runners need more protein because our beloved sport increases our body’s need for protein. Protein also is super helpful for managing the dreaded “RUN-ger” (ya know, increased hunger from running too many miles!) because it stabilizes blood sugar and keeps us fuller longer. In fact, did you know whey protein found in milk is the most satiating protein you can eat? It keeps us fuller longer than any other protein source and that certainly comes in handy when you’re in the middle of high mileage training or have a packed work schedule.
Naked Whey’s Grass Fed Whey Protein Powder is an awesome choice for the busy athlete looking to add convenient protein to their day!! I am a big fan of Naked Whey’s protein powder because they support sourcing whey from small dairy farmer California cows fed a 100% grass-fed diet. Per the Naked Whey site, the milk from their cows is non-GMO, with no rBGH or rBST and non-denatured. Basically, this stuff is made from the good stuff!
I love that the protein powder has ONE ingredient: whey protein concentrate. Two scoops of the product is loaded with 25 grams of whey protein which is the recommended amount to stimulate muscle protein synthesis (MPS). I talk to my clients about MPS allll the time. We talk about how eating a diet rich in protein not only supports the creation of new muscle, but aids in recovery and protects our metabolism.
Naked Whey is unflavored, which I love. Not only does this mean that the protein is free from artificial sweeteners, flavors and colors, but it means I can have ONE jug of protein to use in a variety of recipes rather than having separate containers for chocolate, vanilla, etc. My secret is to stock up on flavored Stevia drops so I can flavor my protein smoothies or pr’oatmeal with different flavors.
My go-to breakfast lately has been adding a scoop or two into my oats in the morning with pumpkin puree. Cereal is commonly low in protein and Naked Whey really helps to fortify the meal with filling, blood stabilizing whey protein, plus pumpkin counts towards eating your veggies for the day!
A word to the wise - this whey protein does not mix easily and requires a shaker bottle. It does have a milky flavor (not unpleasant, it just does have a taste) which I find is easily masked with Stevia drops. I think this is a testament to how minimally processed the product is, but I also want you to have the heads up!
Ultimately, Naked Whey is bursting with protein to repair your damaged muscles and is perfect for those work-from-home moments when you only have a few minutes between meetings. Check out my recipe below for high protein pumpkin oatmeal that takes minutes to make but keeps you full for hours.
** I did receive compensation for this post however I only recommend products which I use myself and recommend.
High Protein Pumpkin Oatmeal
1 tablespoon chia seeds
1/4 cup syrup or honey*
1/2 cup quick oats
1/4 cup pumpkin puree
1/2 cup water
1 tablespoon peanut butter
granola (optional)
*may use flavored stevia drops instead if you have on hand
Combine chia seeds, water, pumpkin, honey or syrup and oats in a microwave safe bowl. Microwave for 1-2 minutes depending on preferred consistency.
Remove from microwave and add in protein powder. Mix well. You may need to add more water if you prefer a thinner consistency oatmeal.
Top with peanut butter, granola or any topping you prefer.