Protein Power

Protein-rich foods, such as red meat, fish and poultry, do not increase blood glucose levels, helping to keep insulin levels, hormones and acne under control. As any parent of a fridge-raiding teenager knows, adolescents have very high energy needs. These cannot be sustained simply by switching from a high GI (Glycaemic Index) to a low GI diet. Enter protein. Foods such as red meat, chicken, fish and eggs not only help teenagers to control their acne, they also play an essential role in growth and the function of all cells.

Replacing some highly processed and refined foods with protein can have positive results for the skin

Vital nutrients for growing bodies

Protein-rich foods from animal sources (beef, lamb, fish and poultry) are excellent for providing the body with a wide range of nutrients essential for health and vitality.

• Red meat (beef, lamb and veal) is the richest supplier of well-absorbed iron, which helps move oxygen around our bodies and is essential for normal brain development and function. Red meat is also rich in zinc, which helps to keep the immune system strong. Our bodies absorb both zinc and iron more effectively from meat than from plant foods.
• Red meat, poultry, fish and eggs are excellent sources of vitamin B12, a nutrient not found in plant foods. Vitamin B12 has a special role in protecting our DNA and nervous system.
• Fish and seafood are packed with healthy omega-3 fatty acids, with the second-largest sources in our diet being beef and lamb. Omega-3s help protect the health of the heart.

HEALTHY LIVING TIP
Teenage skin benefits from a protein-rich diet, so one serve of protein should be included at every meal. At breakfast, cook some eggs, at lunch pack sandwiches with skinless chicken or tuna, and at dinner, serve lean beef or lamb.

Source: The Australian Women’s Weekly