Lean Protein
Protein is found in every living cell in the human body. Protein is crucial in building and maintaining healthy bones, muscles and skin. Protein from animal products is the best form. Animal protein provides the human body with all of the vital amino acids the body needs. On average, a person needs 50 to 65 grams of protein each day. Lean proteins are those containing less than 10 grams of total fat, 4.5 grams of saturated fat and 95 milligrams of cholesterol per serving.
Red Meat
Red meat has been vilified as an unhealthy meat choice. However, research has shown that red meat should not be eliminated from our diets, especially acne sufferers. Recent trends show some acne sufferers have become resistant to antibiotic treatments for acne. Zinc has become an alternative route in the treatment of acne. Red meat is an excellent source of zinc. Zinc is an essential nutrient required for the normal function of skin. This would explain why acne sufferers are often deficient in zinc. The human body absorbs zinc best from animal proteins. An acne fighting diet should consist of lean cuts of beef such as round, chuck, sirloin and tenderloin. Avoid beef cuts that are labeled “Prime” instead opt for “Choice” or “Select” cuts as they are usually lower in fat. Lean cuts of lamb include tenderloin, loin chops and leg.
Pork
Pork is not generally considered a healthy meat choice. However, certain cuts of pork are lower in fat than poultry. Ideal selections should include tenderloin, top loin chop, top loin roast, and center loin chop. Some healthy ways of preparing pork are broiling, grilling, pan broiling and stir-frying. There’s a great guide on consuming lean pork that can be downloaded here.
Poultry & Eggs
Lean sources of poultry include the white meat of turkey, chicken and hen. Preparing the white meat of poultry without its skin will lower its saturated fat content. When buying ground poultry, be sure to choose ground breast meats marked “Low Fat”. Eggs are naturally low fat. Healthy adults can eat one egg a day without any complications. People with heart disease, diabetes or high cholesterol should restrict egg servings. Those individuals wishing to avoid the cholesterol in eggs can prepare egg whites only. There is no cholesterol in egg whites.
Fish & Seafood
Fish and seafood are generally lean sources of protein. However, there are some fatty fish which are loaded with omega 3 fatty acids. Read more on healthy fats here. Some lean fish selections include cod, flounder, haddock, hake, tilapia, halibut and tuna. Some lean seafood include mussels, oysters, crab, clams, lobster, scallops and shrimp. To maintain its healthy fat quality, fish and seafood should be grilled, baked or broiled.
Remember!
A diet consisting of low glycemic carbohydrates is not a standalone treatment for acne. Consuming lean proteins is equally important when attempting to decrease acne outbreaks. Be sure to eat a source of lean protein with every meal! The Cookbook is loaded with delicious recipes featuring lean proteins. Download your copy now! Before downloading, you will be asked to complete a brief offer.