After working with women for over 30 years—across all generations—I see the same struggles over and over again:
- Not enough protein
- Not enough good calories
- Not enough daily movement
The reality? studies show that:
60% of adults who fail to meet their daily protein intake report skipping at least one meal.
The average adult exercises less than three times per week .
This lack of protein and movement leads to low energy, muscle loss, sugar cravings, and a slow metabolism. But the solution is simple: 30g of protein per meal + 30 minutes of movement per day.
Want a simple cheat sheet to get started? Download your FREE PDF guide to getting 30g of bioavailable protein in every meal!
30g protein: essential for muscle & metabolism
The problem: most women don’t eat enough protein
Many women don’t eat enough protein due to small meals, carb-heavy diets, or lack of knowledge.
👉 Fact: 60% of adults who fail to meet protein needs admit to skipping at least one meal, increasing the risk of deficiencies.
The benefits of 30g protein per meal:
- Prevents muscle loss & keeps you strong – After age 30, muscle naturally declines without proper protein intake.
- Boosts metabolism & burns more calories – Protein increases calorie burn by 15-30% compared to just 5-10% for carbs.
- Reduces sugar cravings & keeps you full – Stabilizes blood sugar, preventing energy crashes and snacking.
- Supports hormones & anti-aging – Essential for thyroid function, estrogen balance, and collagen production.
While 30g per meal is the minimum target, a more precise formula is based on body weight:
Women should consume 1.2 – 2.2g of protein per kg of lean body mass (LBM) daily to support muscle maintenance and metabolism more accurately. Since lean body mass excludes fat, this method provides a more precise protein target. However, calculating protein based on total body weight is also acceptable and commonly used, though it may be slightly less accurate. Since lean body mass excludes fat, this method provides a more precise protein target.
To determine LBM, subtract fat mass from total body weight. If an active woman weighs 65kg and has 25% body fat, her LBM is 48.75kg. Using the protein formula, she would need 58.5g – 107g of protein per day.
For weight loss or muscle building, aiming for 2.0-2.2g per kg of LBM can optimize muscle retention and fat loss, ensuring sustainable results.
🔗 Related: Why You Should Aim for at Least 30g of Bioavailable Protein in Every Meal
30 min exercise: burn fat & boost energy
The problem: most women don’t move enough
👉 Fact: The average adult exercises less than 3 times per week .
Sedentary lifestyles increase the risk of heart disease, diabetes, and obesity. Without movement, metabolism slows down, making it harder to stay lean and energized.
The Benefits of 30 Minutes of Daily Movement:
- Speeds up fat loss & boosts metabolism – even light movement burns calories and reduces fat storage.
- Enhances energy & reduces fatigue – exercise increases oxygen flow and improves endurance.
- Strengthens bones & prevents osteoporosis – weight-bearing movement keeps bones strong.
- Improves mood & reduces stress – movement releases endorphins, the body’s natural “happy” hormones.
💡 Best Workouts: Bodyweight exercises, strength training, yoga, walking, or HIIT.
The power of 30g protein & 30 min exercise
When these two habits are combined, the benefits become even more significant. Together, they create a strong foundation for a healthier and more resilient body.
Combining protein + movement creates the perfect formula for a stronger, healthier, and more energized body.
Muscle preservation & metabolism Boost – consuming enough protein supports lean muscle, while regular exercise enhances calorie burn. As a result, maintaining a healthy weight becomes much easier. – Protein supports lean muscle, and exercise increases calorie burn.
Higher energy levels & reduced fatigue – a diet rich in protein, coupled with consistent movement, combats sluggishness and helps sustain energy throughout the day. Instead of feeling drained, you’ll notice improved stamina and endurance over time. A protein-rich diet plus daily movement fights sluggishness.
Lower risk of chronic diseases – research suggests that individuals who prioritize both protein intake and daily activity have a significantly lower risk of developing diabetes, heart disease, and obesity. By making these small yet consistent changes, you create a long-term investment in your health. – Research links protein intake and exercise to reduced risk of diabetes, heart disease, and obesity.
The Takeaway: Small Daily Habits = Big Results
Start today not next week.
Want a Simple, Effective Plan?
I’ve designed a 5-Day 30g Protein & 30min Workout Challenge to make this easy for you!
In just 5 days, you’ll feel stronger, more energized, and more in control of your health.
👉 Join the Challenge Now – Spots Are Limited!
Stay strong, stay energized,
Barbara Rubin | Founder of BABS FIT & BABS Bone Broth