Because it serves so many vital purposes in our bodies, protein is an essential part of our diet. According to Laura Burdick, RD, LD, of Mt. Carmel Health System in Columbus, Ohio, “protein is broken down into amino acids, the building blocks of healthy tissue, including muscle, skin, and connective tissue, and it is vital for wound healing (collagen) and lean body mass (muscle).” Furthermore, practically every metabolic process in the body, including digestion, heart, lung, and nervous system function, requires protein.
What Is Your Need for Protein?
For individuals of all ages, protein is a vital macronutrient; however, the quantity required varies according on age, health, and level of activity. Maya Feller, MS, RD, CDN, owner of Maya Feller Nutrition and adjunct professor at NYU, states that “the National Academy of Medicine made a guideline that people should get a minimum of 0.8 grams/kg of body weight—or little over 7 grams of protein for every 20 pounds of body weight.” “Due to decreased lean body mass and poorer protein use in the body as we age, protein requirements do increase.”
An intake of 1 to 1.2 grams/kg of body weight can help counteract age-related protein deficits in persons 65 years of age and older.1. Body builders and endurance athletes, as well as pregnancy and lactation, may need higher protein intake. “On the other hand, a doctor or other health care provider might advise a limited protein consumption for people with renal or liver problems,” Burdick notes.
Which Source of Protein Is the Best?
The good news is that whether you consume meat or not, protein is an easy component of many delicious and adaptable meals that you can easily include in your diet. High bioavailability proteins are the best proteins available. The ability of your body to absorb and utilize the amino acids found in a protein is known as its bioavailability, according to Feller.
Because they include all nine amino acids, these proteins are occasionally referred to as “complete” or “whole” proteins.2. Not because incomplete proteins are undesirable, but rather because they typically need to have more options. Although the proteins in many ancient grains are abundant, they are not complete. But, including them in your diet can still be advantageous.
Feller suggests consuming protein in combination with acidic foods to maximize its benefits. “Enzymes and hydrochloric acid in the stomach break down proteins. Orange juice or vinegar are examples of acidic foods that may improve the absorption of proteins “says Feller.
Distribute Your Protein
You don’t want to eat all of that protein in one sitting. “Eating a big amount of protein at once is not as efficient for absorption as spreading it out over the day,” she explains.
In light of everything mentioned above, the following foods—which include high-protein meat and plant-based alternatives—are among the greatest, healthiest, and richest in protein.
The Best Foods for High Protein Content
- Meat
According to Feller, “in general, animal-based proteins are more bioavailable than plant-based sources of protein.” While fish and other poultry are also excellent sources of protein, beef and chicken have a tendency to have higher protein content. Burdick continues, “Key minerals such zinc, B vitamins, vitamin D, omega-3 fats, and iron are also found in animal sources.”
Having said that, you should monitor your intake. While beef could have the largest protein content, it also typically contains a high level of saturated fat, which can cause inflammation and be associated with high cholesterol and cardiovascular disease.3. If you eat meat, take pleasure in red meat and other animal protein sources sparingly, and make up the difference with additional plant-based protein sources.
- Yogurt, Milk, and Eggs
Dairy items such as cheese, eggs, and milk are excellent sources of protein. Greek yogurt is a great source of protein since one cup can have up to 23 grams of it. When consumed in moderation, eggs are a great option and contain an average of 6 grams of protein per egg. Dairy products have several health advantages, but like meat, excessive consumption may be associated with high cholesterol.
- Edame
The best plant protein is edamame, which are tender young soybeans that taste good. Nine grams of protein are found in just half a cup of edamame. Since it is a soybean rather than a bean, it is frequently grouped under a distinct heading. One complete source of protein is soy.
- Tofu
According to Burdick, three ounces of tofu provides about 12 grams of protein. Another excellent source of complete protein, tofu is a nourishing supplement to any diet, but vegan diets especially benefit from its presence.
- Nuts
One of the many health advantages of nuts is their high protein content. A good source of protein are peanuts (yes, technically they are legumes!), but almonds and pistachios also make great choices. Another clever way to deliver a protein boost is with nut butters; search for natural varieties without added sugar. Additionally, hemp hearts, or hemp seeds—which are actually nuts—have a high protein content.
- Chia Seeds
With 4 grams of complete protein in every 2 tablespoons, chia seeds are a simple addition to any diet. Add chia seeds to your chia pudding, overnight oats, and smoothies. Some of these tiny, dark seeds can even be added to baked goods, cereal, and veggie burgers. They can even be mixed into salad dressings.
- Quinoa
Quinoa is unique among grains in that it contains all the essential amino acids. (Amaranth and buckwheat are two more excellent options that fit into this group.) A cup of quinoa has roughly 8 grams of protein. It is a healthy, well-rounded complement to your whole grain rotation because it is also high in fiber.
- Legumes
Legumes Because they include fiber, which animal products do not, legumes like beans help you feel full and content for longer periods of time. This makes them a generally healthier meal option. Legumes, such as beans, lentils, chickpeas, and green peas, are therefore an excellent source of protein for a plant-based diet. While not all varieties of legumes have that complete bioavailability, you can easily obtain a variety by combining them with other high-protein foods or other legumes. Lentils provide about 13 grams of protein per cup, while beans typically provide about 20 grams. Another excellent source of protein from legumes are chickpeas, which are also incredibly adaptable to cook and consume (hello, hummus!).