Red meat is often associated with protein, which is an essential nutrient to a healthy body, and one with which many Americans are obsessed. Millions of people have tried the low-carb, protein-rich diets: Athletes used to eat thick steaks before competing, now they're more likely to take protein supplements or drink protein shakes: vegetarians are asked if they're getting enough protein. Protein is a big conversation starter!

While protein is an important nutrient required for the repair, building, and maintenance of the body's tissues, it turns out the average, sedentary American adult consumes more than double the protein their bodies need on a daily basis. Most of this protein comes from animal products which are high in fat, and fatty diets tend to cause a host of health problems later in life, namely cancers and heart-related illnesses.

Protein sources on our planet are plentiful, and many are non-animal products; many are non-beef. While many of us could benefit from eating fewer animal-based products, in moderation, these are excellent sources of protein: cheese, milk, eggs and yogurt. Non-beef meats like chicken, fish and pork are also high in protein, but can be very high in fat and calories, depending on preparation and cut.

When it comes to protein, we tend to not consider vegetables, but many of them serve a healthy punch of protein: peas, spinach, broccoli, cauliflower, mushrooms, parsnips, tomatoes, and believe it or not, even the enemy of the low-carb diet - potatoes.

Legumes, grains and seeds too, are great sources of protein: lentils, brown rice, oatmeal, quinoa, bulgur, nuts and seeds, as well as products made from these items, like whole wheat bread, breakfast cereals and peanut butter.

It is important to mention soy as a terrific source of protein: soy has many forms, like tofu, soynuts and soy milk, and has become increasingly mainstream over the last few years. Soy is truly adaptable - some soy milk on your cereal in the morning might taste a bit different the first time you try it, but over time, you won't even think twice about using it in place of milk. Saute some tofu with garlic and vegetables, serve over rice, and you might not even miss the chicken!

In many parts of the world, rice, grains and vegetables are the main sources of protein, and the people eating those foods have a much lower incidence of heart problems and cancers. Here in the United States, where beef and other animal consumption is much higher, heart disease is the number one cause of death. Various forms of cancer and diabetes are close runners-up, and these, too, can be traced back to diet.

It is nice to live in part of the world where a delicious steak dinner is an option, but it's also important to think about - especially considering the discovery of mad cow in American cattle - changing our diets to incorporate more vegetables, legumes, and grains as primary protein sources. It's healthier in the long run, both to ourselves and the planet (it takes less energy and resources to produce non-animal food options).

Haddon House is a great source for healthy protein options: We carry a large assortment of organic grains, beans, rices and more. To find out more about this subject, please contact your sales representative or the Haddon House Marketing Department.