Eating healthy is on the top of most everyone’s to-do list. It seems to fall lower down the list, though, once you try to put it into effect. The problem occurs when we don’t have a full understanding of what types of foods to eat or where to get said food. Nowadays we seem to be bombarded by commercials and advertisements by trying to prove that their food is the best option. Sound familiar? We then become overwhelmed with the confusion of picking the right type of healthy food and giving up seems easier than trying.

Simplicity can be found in just a few true guidelines– and one to prioritize is consuming enough protein! Protein is the foundation for healthy bones, muscles, cartilage, skin, and blood. The body uses it to build and repair tissue, and also to make enzymes, hormones, and other necessary body chemicals. A lack of protein in one’s diet could lead to gallstones, arthritis, muscle deterioration…the list goes on! According to the Food and Nutrition Board of the Institute of Medicine, in order to be considered a “healthy adult,” one must get a minimum of 0.8 grams of protein for every kilogram of body weight per day. On average this means that women, typically ages 19 to 70+, should take in 46 grams of protein each day and men in that same age group should consumer 56 grams each day – think you’re getting enough?

The tastiest – and least expensive – ways to stock up on one’s protein intake is pork! To maximize the most protein in your pork, it’s best to opt for loin chop cuts or tenderloin, as this particular cut of the pig tends to be less fatty than others, but is still packed with flavor.

Luckily, Stripling’s General Store offers a variety of lean cuts of pork, which is a delicious and inexpensive way to get all the protein needed for a healthy diet. Ask the butchers for suggestions and have them customize each cut specifically for you. Pair your pork with a side of grilled vegetables to boost your nutrient consumption.

When there’s not enough time in the day for a sit down pork meal, a healthy alternative is jerky. Don’t let jerky’s reputation fool you though. Jerky is a convenient on-the-go snack and is proven to not raise levels of insulin, which ultimately signals to store more fat. When preparing their jerky, the makers at Stripling’s remove the moisture and fat from the meat, leaving it high in protein, fat free, and preservative free.

Look for Stripling’s Pork Jerky when trying to pick out the right kind. Pork jerky is a healthier alternative to beef but is still packed with flavor. Each piece is coated in Stripling’s pork rub, making it spicy while still curbing your appetite. The flavors and tenderness of this jerky will have you forgetting it’s actually part of your healthy diet.

Next time you’re in need of your daily dose of protein, reach for Stripling’s jerky or pork chops. It’s the delicious way to maintaining healthy bones and skin while indulging in succulent flavors at the same time.

This article was originally featured in Southern Distinction, October Issue: Medical & Health