23: Ayurveda on Protein: Bottom Line - It’s Not About the Grams

In this solo episode of Everyday Ayurveda, Kate unpacks one of the most frequently asked questions: How much protein do I actually need? But instead of following mainstream nutrition trends, she offers an Ayurvedic approach — one that moves beyond counting grams to understanding the role of protein as a grounding, nourishing force in the body.She discusses how dietary needs shift with age, why protein consumption isn’t a one-size-fits-all equation, and how the imbalance between sugar and protein in modern diets has led to confusion about what our bodies truly need. Whether you’re vegetarian, a lifelong meat eater, or somewhere in between, Kate shares insights on choosing the right sources of protein, optimizing digestion, and using food as a way to create balance, not stress.What You’ll Learn in This Episode: • The Ayurvedic perspective on protein and why it’s about more than numbers • How sugar has shaped modern protein consumption (and why it matters) • The role of elements in food and why balance is key • Best sources of protein for midlife and beyond • Why digestion matters more than the amount of protein • Kate’s personal story of discovering protein’s impact on her body • Practical tips for integrating more grounding foods into your dietResources & Links: • Grab Kate’s books: The Everyday Ayurveda Cookbook • Follow Kate on Instagram: @kateodonnell.ayurveda • Check out Kate’s favorite grass-fed whey protein: LifeSpa Whey ProteinReady for a Spring Cleanse? Learn more here. 🔗 More on Panchakarma & Cleansing 🔗Best practices for a gentle seasonal cleanse (Podcast ep. 11)Love the show? Leave a review! And if you’re curious about deepening your Ayurvedic practice, subscribe and stay tuned for more solo episodes and expert interviews.Health Disclaimer:The information shared on Everyday Ayurveda with Kate is for educational purposes only, and is not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before making changes to your diet, supplements, or wellness routine.Mentioned in this episode:This episode is sponsored by Acknowledge, makers of full-spectrum hemp tinctures grown on a regenerative organic farm. Visit https://acknowledge.co/ and try the Slim Sleep tincture with code KATE30 for 30% off your first order.