Is it ok to snack on fruit throughout the day even when its not paired with protein? Ex: an orange or pineapple? And is almond butter enough protein to complete a meal? Example: rice cake, almond butter, apple…should I get another/more source of protein for that meal?

Having approximately the same amount each meal has worked very well for me (I try to keep it around 20-35 grams per meal which is more than nut butter has), BUT I also found this great article… http://www.abcbodybuilding.com/protein_size_&_frequency.pdf

It recommends having more protein in some meals and less in others. The rice cake and almond butter is a nice snack between other meals but I wouldn’t recommend having rice cake and almond butter for meal #2 and then apple and almond butter for meal #3.

As far as snacking on fruit… there is also evidence to suggest that fruit should be eaten by itself. I personally enjoy my fruit with my other meals, but having 1/2 of an apple by itself is an option too. I just wouldn’t count it as a meal. Just like everything else… watch your portions. Having too much fruit throughout each day will add up to extra calories.

 

Posted in: Nutrition