Got Protein?
February 17, 2012
Greetings, Enota Fmily.
We all know that we need protein to live. But, what do you picture when you hear the word protein? Today’s post will talk about such topics as What is protein? What are the types of protein? And, just how much protein do I need each day?
What is protein?
Proteins are part of every cell in our bodies. Proteins in our bodies are constantly being broken down and replaced. (The protein in the foods we eat is converted into amino acids that are later used to replace these proteins in our bodies.) Protein is found in: meats, poultry, and fish; eggs; milk and dairy products; legumes (dry beans and peas); tofu; nuts and seeds; grains and some vegetables. (There is some protein in some fruits, but for the most part it’s not enough to count.)
What are the types of protein?
Proteins are made up of amino acids. There are 20 different amino acids that join together to make all types of protein. Some of these amino acids can’t be made by our bodies, so these are known as “essential amino acids” because it is essential that our diet provide them.
Complete proteins are those that provide all of the essential amino acids. Animal-based foods, dairy products, and eggs are complete proteins.
Incomplete proteins are those that are low in one or more of the essential amino acids; and, complementary proteins are two or more incomplete proteins that together create adequate amounts of all the essential amino acids. For example, rice and beans together provide all the amino acids your body requires; but, separately they don’t. And, you don’t have to eat them at the same meal… eating the two items within the same day will still allow your body to combine their amino acids.
How much protein do I need?
Generally speaking, about one third of your diet should be protein. The Recommended Dietary Allowances (RDA) for adults is 46 grams for women and 56 grams for men.
Examples of protein
in common foods:
1 cup of milk has 8 grams of protein
A 3-ounce piece of meat has about 21 grams of protein
1 cup of dry beans has about 16 grams of protein
An 8-ounce container of yogurt has about 11 grams of protein
Added together, just these four sources would meet the protein needs of an adult male (56 grams). This doesn’t count all the other foods that add smaller amounts of protein to his diet.
Most people in the United States eat far more protein than required. Usually this doesn’t harm the body unless you have certain medical conditions, such as kidney disease. Of course, intake of many protein sources is high in calories and fat, so you might want to cut back on certain protein sources such as fatty meats, cheese, and dairy.
Vegetarian?
Since many vegetarians avoid eating all (or most) animal foods, they must rely on plant-based sources of protein to meet their protein needs. A vegetarian diet can easily meet the recommended protein needs of adults and children.
Some of the issues surrounding animal- based protein sources (mainly meats) are high amounts of saturated fats, steroids and antibiotics that have been given to the animal. Also, if the animal was fed something loaded with pesticides, you will be eating them too! All these substances are absorbed by the animal and passed along to you.
6 Little-Known Protein Sources:
#1: Alfalfa sprouts: Add alfalfa sprouts to salads or sandwiches. The calories in these sprouts are 40% protein.
#2: Almonds: Almonds are filling, a great substitute snack in place of chips or candy bars; and 15% of their calories are from protein. 2/3 of a cup of almonds provides all the protein an adult male requires for the day.
#3: Hemp protein: Just three Tbs of hemp protein powder is enough protein for an adult’s daily needs! By having Hemp protein in a shake for breakfast you are starting your day with a good energy supply. In blender, mix 1/2 cup almond milk or coconut milk with 1 cup water, 1 Tablespoon hemp protein, and a banana; blend until smooth.
#4: Hummus: Hummus, made primarily of pureed garbanzo beans is a great source of protein ( 25% of its calories) and is a no-fat food! Great for weight loss! Use cucumber slices rather than chips to further increase your level of health.
#5: Spinach: The calories in spinach are 49% protein!!! Spinach is an incredibly healthy food. IF you are looking to lose weight and/or build muscle, spinach is an ideal food.
#6: Sunflower Seeds: Protein makes up 17% of the calories in sunflower seeds. They make a great snack or you can use them on a salad.
Long-story-short: Try to get your protein from natural, easily absorbed sources such as the ones listed above. Your body will appreciate it!
Enota Mountain Retreat
1000 Hwy 180, Hiawassee GA 30546
(706) 896- 9966 email: enota@enota.com
official web site: www.enota.com
Ready for Winter Weather?
February 15, 2012
Hello, again, Enota Readers!
Are YOU Ready for Winter Weather? Despite an unusually mild winter, it has snowed in the North Georgia Mountains a couple times in the past week. And although it is mid-February, many of us remember big snow storms in the month of March! So, even though there’s a lot of wishful thinking that spring will be early this year, we can’t become complacent. Just in case, let’s review emergency preparedness for winter storms…
Of course, the main point of any preparedness plan is to be ready BEFORE the announcements of inclement weather! Getting ready before winter storms strike includes two main steps:
#1: Create a home emergency preparedness closet with at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food and water for your home as well as other items your family needs.. Ask yourself questions such as, “What is my family’s usual routine? How can we make this experience safe, less-than-scary, maybe even enjoyable?” Household emergency supplies should include enough water, food, and other supplies to last a few days without power or help. Things to have on hand include: Food that doesn’t require heating or refrigeration, such as canned meats, soups and stews, cereal, and energy bars. Take into consideration your family’s likes and dislikes, food intolerances, etc. Having a bunch of nearly-inedible food will not be comforting to your loved ones.
Be sure to include a manual can opener, paper plates, and plastic cups and utensils.
Have at least 1 gallon of water per person per day (allow enough for four days), and don’t forget the pets! They will need water (and food), too.
Also have on hand: Flashlights and batteries, a battery-powered radio and clock, cell phone. Other items, depending on your family’s habits and needs: games, puzzle books, etc., a first-aid kit, cold-weather clothing and blankets for each family member.
Make a plan and practice the plan with your family. Stay informed and aware of approaching weather so that you are prepared for whatever the weather throws your way. And, even if you already have an emergency closet, read on… there might be a new idea or two… something you overlooked.
#2: Vehicle kits for winter road travel are also a good idea. Keep your vehicle emergency kits up-to-date for the season! (What if you were stranded in your vehicle? How safe would you be? And, for how long?) Be sure to have warm blankets, first aid kit, water, protein snacks, pet supplies.
Road conditions can change in an instant. Before traveling, give cars a winter preparedness exam:
Check antifreeze; Check and replace older batteries; Remember to keep the gas tank near full to avoid freezing water in the fuel line; Check tires and spare tire for proper inflation; and, make sure that vehicles contain the following emergency supplies: Jumper cables, ice scraper, bag of sand, road salt or non-clumping cat litter (the bag’s extra weight means better traction, and the contents can be spread under slipping tires), a small shovel to dig away wheels or shovel dirt under wheels; flares or reflectors; and, emergency backpacks for each family member. Each persons’ emergency backpack should include: coat, hat, and gloves; snow-proof boots; nonperishable food; and a few dollars and a bit of change.
Other Cold Weather Considerations (Info from FEMA)
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Stay indoors during the storm.
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Walk carefully on snowy, icy, walkways.
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Avoid overexertion when shoveling snow. Overexertion can bring on a heart attack—a major cause of death in the winter. If you must shovel snow, stretch before going outside.
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Keep dry. Change wet clothing frequently to prevent a loss of body heat. Wet clothing loses all of its insulating value and transmits heat rapidly.
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Watch for signs of frostbite. These include loss of feeling and white or pale appearance in extremities such as fingers, toes, ear lobes, and the tip of the nose. If symptoms are detected, get medical help immediately. -
Watch for signs of hypothermia. These include uncontrollable shivering, memory loss, disorientation, incoherence, slurred speech, drowsiness, and apparent exhaustion. If symptoms of hypothermia are detected, get the victim to a warm location, remove wet clothing, warm the center of the body first and give warm, non-alcoholic beverages if the victim is conscious. Get medical help as soon as possible.
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Drive only if it is absolutely necessary. If you must drive: travel in the day; don’t travel alone; keep others informed of your schedule; stay on main roads and avoid back road shortcuts. -
Let someone know your destination, your route, and when you expect to arrive. If your car gets stuck along the way, help can be sent along your predetermined route.
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If the pipes freeze, remove any insulation or layers of newspapers and wrap pipes in rags. Completely open all faucets and pour hot water over the pipes, starting where they were most exposed to the cold (or where the cold was most likely to penetrate). -
Maintain ventilation when using kerosene heaters to avoid build-up of toxic fumes. Refuel kerosene heaters outside and keep them at least three feet from flammable objects.
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Conserve fuel, if necessary, by keeping your residence cooler than normal. Temporarily close off heat to some rooms. -
If you will be going away during cold weather, leave the heat on in your home, set to a temperature no lower than 55ºF.

And, remember, Spring really
IS just around the corner!









































































































