Protein

Protein is a key component of every cell in the body. It’s used to produce enzymes, hormones and other chemicals that keep your body humming along. Protein is an important building block of bones, muscle, cartilage, skin and blood. Plus, protein is a natural appetite suppressant that will help you feel full, even at a lower calorie count.

The JumpstartMD program emphasizes moderate quantities of daily protein. We’ve done all the calculations for you, so all you need to do is follow the serving sizes listed as you track your Protein boxes.

To measure portions, use either a food scale (preferred) or these approximations:

• 3 oz cooked meat, seafood, or tofu = size of your palm or a deck of playing cards
• 1 oz deli meat = size of a compact disc
• 1 oz cheese = size of your thumb or 2 dice

Protein content is listed in grams to reflecting pure weight, while weighted in ounces capture other elements such as water content. Grams and ounces will not convert equivalently due to this.

PROTEIN – 1 Box

• Meat, Fish and Seafood, Cheese (all kinds and cuts) 1 oz
• Egg (whole) 1 large
• Cottage cheese 2 oz or ¼ cup
• Yogurt (plain Greek) 4 oz or ½ cup

VEGAN PROTEIN – 1 Box

• Beans and legumes ½ cup

Limit to 1 box per day except for vegetarians or vegans. Each additional serving should be counted 1 Carbohydrate and 1 Protein box.

• Seitan ½ oz
• Tempeh 1 oz
• Tofu 3 oz

Note: Weighing your protein is recommended for best success on the program.