Ever hit that mid-afternoon slump where you’re begging for a nap or another cup of coffee? Come on, don’t lie! I’m all for coffee—I love coffee, but I was so over NEEDING more coffee just to make it through the day. And let’s talk about the kids—they’re full of energy, running from one thing to the next, always keeping us on our toes. It’s amazing to see their creativity and zest for life, but it can leave us wondering how to keep up! Sound familiar? Mama, you’re not alone. But, your food might just be the secret weapon you’ve been missing to prioritize protein and truly thrive.
I used to think protein was just for bodybuilders or people hitting the gym hard. In fact, I didn’t even consider how little or much I was getting until I started to lift weights. But wow, was I wrong. Protein and healthy fats are game changers for us moms who just want to get through the day without feeling like we’re dragging ourselves through the mud. Prioritizing protein isn’t just for muscles—they’re the key to steady energy, balanced hormones, and feeling like yourself again so you can finally stop slumping on the cozy sofa, and start chasing those wild dreams of yours.
Let’s talk about how you can start balancing your energy and fueling your family with the foods that make all the difference. Trust me, it’s easier than you think, and you’re going to love how it feels to unstuck by prioritizing protein.
The Turning Point: When I Realized Prioritizing Protein = Energy Stability
Okay, confession time: I used to live off carbs. I honestly don’t really know how I survived, but in my Army days, I would eat tortilla shells for breakfast on the way to PT (our morning fitness time), white rice with margarine when I came home for lunch, and then massive Subway sandwiches for dinner. Carbs were easy, they tasted good, and they gave me that quick boost to power through my crazy days. But let me tell you, the crash… oh, it was rough. By my late 20s and early 30s, I felt stuck and couldn’t figure out why I was always so drained.
How about you? Have you ever looked back at your eating habits and thought, “Wow, how did I get through the day on that?” Or maybe you’re in that spot right now, trying to piece together why you’re so exhausted. What’s one thing you’ve noticed about the foods you rely on?
Between my early 30s and now, I started making better choices with my meals. It’s been a journey—learning to balance protein and fats in a way that fits my lifestyle. But it wasn’t until I started using the Lumen device (a metabolism tracker) in the last year and a half that I fully understood the impact of what I was eating and could actually use the data to visualize the reason. It was so empowering. I realized how much of a rollercoaster I had been putting my body through, even during this last decade. Once I started truly prioritizing protein and healthy fats consistently, things began to change almost immediately. No more afternoon naps. No more “hangry” arguments. I had steady, reliable energy—the kind that helped me say yes to family adventures and spontaneous fun.
Does this sound like you? Do you feel like you’re stuck in the cycle of energy highs and lows? Because if you do, I promise there’s a better way—and it starts with your plate.
Prioritize Protein and Fats: The Backbone of Balanced Eating
In our house, we have a rule: every meal or snack needs to include protein and fat. It’s not complicated. Cottage cheese, yogurt, raw milk, eggs, smoothies… those are our snack staples in addition to the obvious meat options. And listen, the protein isn’t just a little sidekick—it’s the main act. We’re talking enough to actually fuel your body and keep your blood sugar steady. Add a piece of fruit for some carbs, and you’ve got yourself a balanced meal that’s going to keep you going.
And you know what? When I’m eating like this, I feel like I’m on top of the world. No more mindless scrolling on my phone or skipping out on activities because I’m too tired. I’m living. I’m planning hikes, dreaming up creative projects, and saying yes to things that make homeschool life fun. Isn’t that what we all want?
What about you? What’s one thing you could add to your meals this week to give your body the protein it needs? Maybe it’s something simple like cheese and fruit or a handful of nuts to go with your snack. Start there and make it a habit to prioritize protein daily..
Easy Protein-Packed Snacks for Busy Days
Let’s talk snacks because I know how busy life can get. Between homeschooling, running errands, and keeping the family fed, it’s all too easy to grab whatever’s quick. But quick doesn’t have to mean fast food or junk. In fact, our family hasn’t eaten fast food in over a year, so I promise it can be done. Here are some of our go-to snacks that are simple, portable, and packed with protein and fats:
- Raw cheese with dates or apples
- Yogurt bowls (Sprinkle on some nuts or fruit for extra goodness)
- Hard-boiled eggs (Make a big batch and keep them in the fridge!)
These are the kinds of snacks that keep you full, happy, and ready to tackle whatever comes next. And guess what? Your kids are going to love them too.
Maybe add a handful of nuts to that apple or a slice of cheese to that cracker. Small changes can make a big difference.
Click here for my free guide to high protein snack ideas
Helping Kids Embrace Real Food
You know what I’ve learned? Kids love to know the why behind what we do. My kids know about seed oils, food dyes, and high fructose corn syrup because we talk about it. They’ve watched videos, they’ve asked questions, and they understand that what they eat affects how they feel. And honestly? They make better choices because of it.
You can do the same with your kids. Start small. Talk to them about how food gives them energy for the things they love, like playing or learning something new. Make it fun and relatable, and they’ll catch on quicker than you think. Maybe let them help plan snacks or pick out a new food to try. They’ll surprise you how excited they get when they understand the power of prioritizing protein.
Tools That Make It All Easier
Cooking from scratch can feel like a lot. But the right tools make all the difference. Here are a few I couldn’t live without:
- Instant Pot: It’s a lifesaver for quick, healthy meals.
- Blackstone Griddle: Perfect for outdoor cooking and big batches.
- Xtrema Ceramic Cookware: Non-toxic and versatile—from stovetop to campfire. You can use code ROGUE for extra savings
Having these tools makes it easier to stick to real food without feeling overwhelmed. if you don’t have fun or helpful tools in the kitchen, I would highly recommend you invest in one of a few to make life a little easier.
Your First Step Toward Balanced Energy
Okay, so, if you’ve been feeling stuck, this is your moment. Take the first step. With your next snack or meal, add something with real protein and healthy fats. Start small. Grab some yogurt, a slice of cheese, or a hard-boiled egg. It’s not about being perfect—it’s about moving in the right direction.
So what do you say? What’s one change you’ll make this week to prioritize your energy this week with protein? Let me know in the comments or send me a message. We’re in this together, and I can’t wait to hear how it’s going for you.