We all have jobs, families, hobbies, and a million other things that pull us in different directions. Trying to find balance is an ongoing mission for many of us. Creating balance in your life needs to also include creating balance on your dinner plate.
You need to look at food in the same way – with a view towards balance. It would not be beneficial to your body to consume only carbohydrates or only protein; you need to have a good balance of both. A good rule of thumb is to have your calories come from 60% carbohydrates, 25% proteins, and 15% fats in your diet.
We all know about the benefits carbohydrates provide, but protein is just as beneficial to people with active lifestyles. This is because it repairs muscles after strenuously working them. Thus, protein is necessary to help you build on your performance rather than stay stagnant or even decline. All protein is made up of building blocks called amino acids. We need to consume protein as some of these amino acids can only be obtained through the food we eat. Unlike carbohydrates and fat, the body does not store excess amino acids for later use. Therefore if we do not meet our body’s requirements, it will begin to break down the muscle to get the amino acids it needs to function.
Try the recipe below for a unique twist on the traditional meatloaf. These loaves are a good source of protein with some whole grains thrown in to make them healthier. To make this meal complete add some cooked brown rice with fresh lemon zest stirred in and roast some broccoli and cauliflower and top with tahini sauce.
Lamb and Oat Patties
1.25 pound ground lamb
½ cup chopped onion
¼ cup rolled oats (not instant or quick cooking)
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon dried oregano
¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
1 teaspoon dry mustard
2 Tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
2 Tablespoons brown rice syrup
Combine all the ingredients in a bowl making sure to add the brown rice syrup last. Using your hands mix everything together until the ingredients are thoroughly distributed. Form in 4 patties and place on a broiler pan. Bake in 400 degree oven for 25 – 30 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 155 degrees. Enjoy!
