If you’re struggling to eat enough protein every day, you’re not alone! Many busy moms find it difficult to hit their protein goals, even when they know how important it is for energy, fat loss, and overall health. The good news? Once you identify the reasons holding you back, you can take simple steps to fix them.
Let’s break down 3 major reasons why it’s hard to eat enough protein and 6 practical steps to make it easier.
3 Reasons Why It’s Hard to Eat Enough Protein
1. Lack of Time
Let's face it, sometimes you just run out of time. I know first hand that it’s easy to skip meals, grab something quick, or opt for convenient but low-protein foods. But here’s the reality—we all have the same 24 hours in a day, and prioritizing protein is key to feeling your best.
Protein isn’t just about muscle-building. It helps stabilize blood sugar, preventing those mid-afternoon crashes that leave you exhausted and reaching for junk food. Think of it like the airplane oxygen mask—you have to take care of yourself first to take care of everyone else.
Solution:
✅ Set aside time for meal planning and prep—even just 30 minutes a week can make a difference. I talk about this on my podcast ALL the time. Because it works.
✅ Keep quick, high-protein foods on hand (we’ll get into specific ideas below!).
2. Difficulty Planning High-Protein Meals
When you’re cooking for a family with different preferences, getting enough protein can feel overwhelming. Many moms struggle with meal planning because they don’t have a go-to system.
I teach a high-protein meal rotation system in my program, Fit Lifestyle in a Box. Personally, I use an 8-10 week meal rotation that’s full of protein, and it only takes me about 30 minutes a week to plan!
Solution:
✅ Create a meal plan template with protein-packed meals that you can rotate weekly.
✅ Have a list of go-to high-protein meals to make planning easier.
3. Not Knowing What’s Actually High in Protein
A common mistake? Thinking peanut butter is a high-protein food. (Spoiler: it’s mostly fat!) Many people don’t realize that some of their favorite “protein sources” aren’t actually that protein-rich.
Solution:
✅ Learn the best protein-rich foods beyond just chicken, like:
Eggs
Greek yogurt
Tofu
Cottage cheese
Beans & legumes
Lean meats
Cheese
✅ Pro tip: Eat your protein first at meals—this helps you hit your target and keeps you full longer.
6 Practical Steps to Eat More Protein
Ok, so now you know WHY you struggle. Let me share some of my favorite ways to get more protein in.
1. Start Your Day with Protein
A protein-packed breakfast sets the tone for the day. Some great options:
2. Protein-Packed Snacks
Busy day? Snacks are the easiest way to add extra protein. Keep grab-and-go options on hand like:
Jerky
Boiled eggs
Cottage cheese
Greek yogurt
3. Make Use of Protein Supplements
On extra busy days, protein powders, bars, and ready-to-drink shakes can be lifesavers. No shame in making it easier on yourself!
Protein bars (Fit Crunch is my fave. It literally tastes like a candy bar)
Ready-to-drink protein shake like Premier
4. Incorporate Protein into Every Meal
At lunch and dinner, make sure protein is the foundation of your meal:
Add grilled chicken or tofu to salads
Make protein-packed bowls (e.g., quinoa, chickpeas, lean meat)
Keep meals simple but protein-focused
5. Choose Protein-Rich Carbs
Instead of plain rice or pasta, swap in higher-protein carbs like:
Quinoa
Chickpeas
Lentils
Edamame
6. Track Your Intake (Without Obsession)
Most people underestimate how much protein they eat. A simple way to stay consistent? Track your intake—without overcomplicating it.
I teach my clients to start by tracking only protein, before worrying about anything else. It builds awareness without stress.
How to Stay Consistent with Protein Intake
1️⃣ Create a Routine: Build your meals and snacks around protein first.
2️⃣ Shift Your Mindset: Protein isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about energy, fat loss, and overall health.
3️⃣ Take It Slow: Small, consistent changes will stick long-term.
👉 If you want to be in a supportive community of moms working on their nutrition and fitness, join my Facebook group!🔗 Strength Training for Moms Facebook Group
Start Small.
If you’ve been struggling to eat enough protein, start with just 100g per day and build from there.
Which of these tips will you try first? Drop a comment below, I'd love to hear from you.
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