I've lost a significant amount of weight, from my heaviest weight to my recent lowest, we are talking about 60 pounds. I am not currently at my lowest, as I've eased up on myself and gained a little back. Now, my primary focus is getting the good nutrition I need to stay healthy and strong.

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Protein Is Key

As a woman, I need the calcium and protein that will keep my bones from becoming Swiss cheese as I age. So when I found this fast, inexpensive, delicious, and nutritionally impressive option, I was thrilled and wanted to pass it along. Braum's isn't paying me to tell you this; it's a public service, but if they would like to call me, I'm open 😁.

Braum's Is Killing It On Protein And Price

Trying to be a skinny diva at lunch the other day, I did my best guess at a healthy meal while still getting something that sounded great. My exact order at Braum's was a grilled chicken sandwich, no sauce, sub mustard, extra pickles, sub fries for cottage cheese, and a diet soda. It was less than $10.

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When I put the meal into my calorie tracking app, I couldn't believe my eyes, so I had to verify it for myself. About 500 calories and nearly 50 grams of protein. This ratio is great, ideal for building muscle and fat loss. And it was super tasty, too. FYI, the grilled chicken sandwich is listed at 560 calories, but removing the mayo-based sauce reduced the calories; I'm approximating 60 calories, but it could have been even more.

Another great option would have been to get a grilled chicken salad with a side of cottage cheese, using the cheese instead of the packet dressing to add flavor to the salad while reducing calories/ sugars from the dressing. This would also remove the extra carbs from the bun on the sandwich, but bread is non-negotiable for me; I'm going to have it sometimes.

Of Course, You Must Resist Temptation

I'm not going to lie to you; you are going to have to have some discipline and willpower if you are also trying to be a skinny diva at Braum's. They allow you to substitute a milkshake for your soda at no extra charge with a combo meal. If you are a bodybuilder, that might be a great option for even more protein, but I'm certainly not there yet with my physical fitness. And, of course, seeing someone at another table with a banana split always fills my heart with longing. You can hit up the small grocery area for fruit if you want something sweet and want more fiber (always, always get your fiber!).

It's All About Balance And Sustainability

Someone will read this, roll their eyes, and think, "I meal prepped raw Elk meat, quail eggs, and acorns for the next month; this person is a loser!" and honestly, that's okay. I like living my life and being happy. I stay really busy and don't have the time or desire to make eating like that my entire personality. If you are like me and want to do a little better while still having time and space for joy, making these small, easy and affordable meal swaps is key.

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Gallery Credit: Renee Raven