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Logo for The Roots Of Vitality - Marina Kotova - Health & Wellness Coach, Nutritionist Serving DMV: District of Columbia, Maryland, Virginia, & Surrounding Areas

Marina Kotova - Certified Functional Health Practitioner Serving DMV: District of Columbia, Maryland, Virginia, & Surrounding Areas

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"Eat More Protein” (Here’s Why It Actually Matters)

Mar 24
2 min read

We hear the same advice again and again:

“Eat more protein.” It’s everywhere! On social media, in books, on podcasts and because of that it’s not easy to ignore. But what if this simple advice is actually one of the most powerful shifts you can make for your health?


Protein is not only about building muscle. It helps stabilize blood sugar, reduce cravings, support metabolism, strengthen immunity, and support brain function and energy throughout the day. When your body receives adequate protein, healthy eating becomes much easier and cravings tend to naturally decrease.


At Roots of Vitality, we encourage choosing clean, nourishing sources of protein:


  • Plant proteins such as lentils, beans, quinoa, tofu, and tempeh

  • Eggs and high-quality dairy when tolerated

  • Meat only when it is 100% grass-fed, pasture-raised, and sustainably sourced

  • Wild fish and thoughtfully raised poultry


A simple way to estimate portions:

A serving of protein about the size of your palm usually provides 20–30 grams.


Equally important is remembering that vegetables remain the true foundation of a healthy plate. While increasing protein can support metabolism and satiety, my personal and professional emphasis always begins with whole, organic vegetables. Vegetables provide fiber, polyphenols, minerals, and antioxidants that nourish the gut microbiome, support oxygenation at the cellular level through improved metabolic function, and help regulate blood sugar and inflammation. A diverse intake of plant foods feeds beneficial gut bacteria, which produce short-chain fatty acids that support immune balance, metabolic health, and overall resilience.


For this reason, our simple principle at Roots of Vitality is:

Build your meals around vegetables first—then add high-quality protein to complete the plate.


Many people naturally eat most of their protein at dinner, but the body often benefits from starting the day with protein. Eggs, vegetables with chicken or beans, or a simple smoothie with plant protein can help keep energy steady for hours.


There is no need to change everything overnight. Health is built through small, consistent steps.


Fill your plate with vegetables.

Choose thoughtful sources of protein.

Support your microbiome and metabolism ever.



 
 
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