Do you feel hungry and tired all the time? Do short bursts of workout make you feel lethargic and exhausted? Then you might be suffering from protein deficiency. Protein is a macro nutrient composed of amino acids. It is the building block of life. Our body can produce several amino acids required for protein production, but there is a set of essential amino acids that can be obtained from animal and plant sources only. Protein helps to break down the amino acids that promote cell growth and repair. The excess protein consumed is converted into energy by the body. Several researches have also suggested that protein in the form of lean meat, beans, nuts and dairy food can promote weight loss and reduce the risk of heart diseases. It takes a long time to be digested by the body, keeping you full for a longer time.
The recommended dietary allowance of protein is:
While it may look difficult to get a full dose of protein a day, incorporating a few of these foods high in protein can help you reach your goal.
Animal protein sources contain the complete set of essential amino acids. Turkey is one of the best animal sources of protein. It is consumed traditionally in some parts of the world on Christmas. 100 grams serving of turkey breast provides 22.3 grams of protein. Turkey also provides high concentrations of B complex vitamins, zinc and other vitamins. It also contains nutrients that help to alleviate depression and anxiety.
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Chicken breast is one of the best protein-rich foods. 58 grams of chicken breast provides 17 grams protein. A large chicken breast also provides you with high levels of niacin, which helps the body to produce energy and keeps the nervous system healthy. Chicken thigh, on the other hand, contains 9 grams protein. The skin is loaded with saturated fat. Make sure you remove the skin before cooking. Chicken is also a good source of omega 3 fatty acids, magnesium, Vitamins A, K, B3 and B6.
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Fish is a healthy alternative to several popular meat options. It contains the same amount of protein as red meat. Salmon is the best source of protein compared to most other fishes. It is extremely versatile and found abundantly in supermarkets. It is classed as an oily fish as it contains high levels of omega 3 fatty acids. Omega 3 fatty acids help to keep the heart healthy. A single fillet provides 26 grams of protein. This tasty fish is also high in Vitamin D and E. The other excellent sources of protein are tuna, snapper, halibut, perch, flounder, sole, cod and tilapia. Tuna, snapper and halibut contain 22 grams of protein per fillet, while flounder, sole and perch contain 21 grams of protein per fillet. Fishes also provide vitamins, iron, zinc and energy.
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Cheese is a valuable source of calcium, protein, fat and phosphorus. Non-fat mozzarella cheese is another best foods with high protein out of all the varieties of cheese. A 100 grams serving provides 32 grams of protein. Other cheeses high in protein include cottage cheese, cheddar, parmesan, Gruyere, Romano and Swizz cheese. Much of the protein in Parmesan cheese is in pre-digested form and takes 45 minutes to be digested completely. Gruyere Cheese contains 8 grams of protein, even more than an egg. Cottage cheese is low in fat and carbohydrates, yet high in protein. It also provides high levels of calcium, which is vital for making the muscles contract.
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Pork loin and sausages are loved all over the world. The meat on the pork chops is lean and has succulent and tasty fat. 134 grams of pork chops provide 25 grams of protein. 3 oz. of roasted pork provides 23 grams of protein while a slice of bacon contains 3 grams of protein. Pork is a good source of zinc, which helps the body to produce testosterone, a muscle-building hormone. The vitamins present in pork chops help one to exercise faster.
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If red meat is your preferred source of protein, choose the leanest meat to limit the fat intake. A slice of lean beef provides 31 grams of protein, which is why it is included in the high protein foods list. It is also rich in iron, which provides oxygen to the muscles, allowing you to do cardiovascular exercises for a long time. Zinc in lean beef aids in tissue repair and in the conversion of food to fuel. It is also a natural source of the strength booster, creatine, which aids in building muscle. Beef takes a long time to digest, keeping you full for a longer time.
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Foods made with soybean contain the highest levels of protein. Tofu is a complete source of protein and provides all the essential amino acids. 85 grams of tofu provide 7 grams of protein. It is also fortified with nutrients like calcium, iron and Vitamin B12. You can add tofu in just about anything, like stir-fries, pasta, pizza, soups and salads. It also provides 185% of the daily-recommended allowance of magnesium.
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Foods in the legume family are a good substitute for meat and dairy foods. You can consume different varieties of beans like black, white, pinto and edamame to get your daily dose of protein. A half cup of beans contains as much protein as an ounce of red meat. Soybean contains all the eight essential amino acids, making it excellent for vegetarians. 1 cup of mature soybeans provides 29 grams of protein. Other good sources of protein include kidney beans, white beans, lima beans, black beans and fava beans. 2 cups of kidney beans provide 26 grams of protein. A half cup of boiled edamame contains 9 grams of protein. Edamame can be served both hot and cold. These nutritional powerhouses are also loaded with fiber, which helps to keep you full for a longer time. Beans pair best with salads and pastas. You can also blend the beans to prepare a tasty dip.
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Eggs are one of the least expensive sources of protein that are included in high protein foods list. Egg white especially, contains high levels of protein. One large egg provides 6 grams of protein. Egg white provides 4 grams of protein. Eggs include all the essential fatty acids and vitamins like A, D, E and K. According to the American Heart Association, a healthy individual can safely consume an egg a day. Eat three scrambled and poached eggs with toast to get a morning boost of energy. It will keep you full for hours.
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Yogurt is not only an excellent source of protein, but is also rich in calcium. Yogurt, especially Greek Yogurt, contains double the protein than regular yoghurt. It is filling, thick and less sweet than most yogurts. Greek yogurt is extremely low in calories. You can eat yogurt on its own or in combination with fruits, nuts and berries. For extra protein, add some dried milk powder to it. Yoghurt can be digested easily and is perfect for a healthy evening snack. Avoid eating the flavored yoghurts as they contain high levels of carbohydrates.
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Milk is not only essential for bone health, but also provides high concentrations of protein. 1 cup of skimmed milk provides 8 grams of protein. Skimmed milk keeps the bones and teeth strong, preventing osteoporosis. It also helps to maintain blood pressure. Purchase milk fortified with Vitamin D to obtain maximum benefits. People who are intolerant to lactose can drink soy milk instead. 1 cup of soy milk provides 8 grams of protein. Soymilk is also available in chocolate and vanilla flavors to satisfy the sweet tooth.
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Pumpkin is one of the most widely grown vegetables in the world. One cup of pumpkin provides 1.2 grams of protein. It is also chock full of antioxidants, minerals, vitamins and fiber. Pumpkin seeds are also worth latching on to get the daily dose of protein. The seeds can be quite high in calories; be mindful of your serving. Pumpkin can be incorporated in a number of recipes, be it baked, fried or stewed.
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Prawns are excellent foods with high proteins. It is extremely low in fat and carbohydrates, making it an ideal addition to a weight loss diet. A single serving of prawns provides 0.3 grams of carbohydrates. Prawns also help to metabolize fats, protein and carbohydrates.
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Lentil is a type of legume, staple in India. A cup of cooked lentils will provide 18 grams of protein. Lentil is not a complete protein food, as it does not contain all the essential amino acids. It lacks methionine and cysteine amino acids. You can obtain all the essential amino acids by pairing it with rice.
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Spirulina is blue-green algae, extremely rich in nutrients. It is used across the world to treat several types of ailments. Spirulina is a very high source of protein, minerals, vitamins, beneficial pigments and antioxidants. It contains all the essential amino acids, making it a complete protein food. Dried spirulina contains about 60% of protein.
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Raw nuts contain protein and healthy fats, making them a valuable part of a plant-based diet. Raw nuts are quite low in calories and fat, as compared to pistachio, peanut and almonds. You can toss raw nuts with vegetables and apple cider vinegar to make a refreshing salad. Nuts are a slow burning food, which leaves you feeling fuller for a longer time. Several researches have also shown that nuts can help you reduce weight.
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Incorporate these high protein foods in your diet for your daily dose of health. Don’t forget to leave us a comment below.
Also you can below check out the list of high potassium, iron, magnesium and zinc rich foods —
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