This blog was inspired by some social media bologna, of which, there is no shortness of. I’m not one to typically let this get under my skin. I usually have a casual laugh and then move on. This day, however, was different. Hope you enjoy.
I don’t mean to be an ass but when people say things (type things to be more correct) that are completely ignorant and that mislead others (whether intentional or not), I get a little pissed off.
Please note the following:
The above is what was shared via social media. Typically, I just let this stuff slide and go about my merry way. This day was different. Not wanting to come off too aggressive and ass-holish, I said the following:
“No sugar added but far from absent. Lots of carbs! Where’s the protein? I would recommend throwing a scoop of protein powder in the mix.”
A very careful response, I thought. I stated the problem and provided a solution in a very delicate way. No harm. No foul. However, this would spark a small, yet irritating pain in my ass.
First reply to my response (word for word):
“Almond milk has protein and soy products aren’t good for the ole endocrine system… might help your muscle mass…”
Okay. What?! 11 hours later and I still can’t figure out what the heck they’re talking about. Nonetheless, let’s attempt to break this down.
Deep breath … and h e re w e g o …
#1 Almond milk has to be one of the most insignificant sources of protein out there. It’s trace at best. Whole almonds are a pretty insignificant source much less almond milk. Have you even looked at the nutritional information?! And let’s just forgo the amino acid profile conversation.
#2 Where in the heck did soy products come from??? I have no clue how this even came up. If somebody could enlighten me, that’d be great. Thanks.
#3 What might help your muscle mass? All the carbs? Perhaps so. But you better have one hell of a glycogen depleting workout if you plan on eating all that!
What’s that? You don’t workout? Not sure what glycogen is? Exactly.
Probably best that you not put your two cents in.
Second reply to my response (word for word):
“It’s not a meal replacement but good alternative to a candy bar/cookie when you’re craving one. Adding protein powder will enhance nutritional value. Thanks [name].”
#1 You’re dang right it’s not a meal replacement. Meal replacements have protein!
#2 Good alternative to candy bar/cookie? Not quite. Let’s break this down.
Wacka… Wacka…
| Food | Kcal | Protein (g) | Carbs (g) | Fats (g) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Banana (3 ripe ~378g) | 330 | 3 | 87 | 0 |
| Apple Sauce (1/3 cup ~40g) | 17 | 0 | 4 | 0 |
| Oats (2 cups ~200g) | 600 | 20 | 108 | 10 |
| Unsweetened Almond Milk (1/4 cup ~60g) | 8 | 0.2 | 0.2 | 0.5 |
| Raisins (1/2 cups ~50g) | 34 | 0.3 | 8.5 | 0.2 |
| Totals | 989 | 23.5 | 203.7 | 10.7 |
Most would consider this to be a “healthy” recipe and would have no problem eating half of this concoction. That would yield the following nutritional info:
495 kcal
12 g protein
102 g carbohydrate
5 g fat
Look at all that protein!
Now, let’s take a look at the following items that most would consider to be unhealthy. In fact, that’s the very reason why the above creation was made. It’s suppose to be healthier.
| Food | Kcal | Protein (g) | Carbs (g) | Fats (g) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Snickers Peanut Butter (2 small bars) | 250 | 4 | 30 | 13 |
| Whey Protein Shake (ID Life 1 scoop) | 130 | 23 | 7 | 2 |
| Totals | 380 | 27 | 37 | 15 |
Would you lookie there. You could have a snickers peanut butter bar and a protein shake which would provide more protein, less carbs, more fat BUT you’re saving 115 calories. You’ll be more satisfied with the shake and snickers than the former thanks to the increase in protein.
Remember, that’s only eating half of that concoction.
So, I caution you to think about “healthy” recipes. What is it that makes it “healthy?” Can you easily define “healthy?” Perhaps, I need to ask a better question.
Why are you still eating snacks anyway? Higher meal frequency does NOT increase your metabolism. I address this myth and many others here.
Do what I do and eat 1-3 large meals a day, IF style.
Don’t get me wrong. Both of these scenarios are horrible. Stick to quality food as much as possible. Lot’s of meat (i.e. chicken, fish, turkey, steak, eggs), complex carbohydrates (i.e. rice, potatoes, oatmeal) and veggies as much as you can.
Occasionally indulge in some straight up junk. Live a little bit and enjoy life. If you’re eating well 90% of the time, that 10% won’t make a difference. Be honest with yourself though. You are the only one to blame if you’re not where you want to be.
Stop letting health and fitness take away your happiness. Fitness is suppose to enhance your life not make it more stressful.
I don’t mean any offense to anybody out there other than those internet jockeys or keyboard rangers who read an article or two on nutrition and think they can make notable inputs on such matters. If you were one of the people whom I quoted, it’s nothing personal. I’m afraid you were just victim of circumstance.
Just to clear things up:
Being #Relentless doesn’t mean we spin our wheels doing pointless stuff. Being #Relentless means that we strive to do things that will give us the advantage. It doesn’t mean that we over do it or pointlessly sacrifice. Be #Relentless about your planning, about efficiency, about doing the right things, and doing them well.
Don’t screw around too much with this fitness stuff. Let the good times roll and tell ’em ole LaToof sent ya.
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