Until recently I thought high-protein diets were ‘faddy’ and just for those wanting to build muscle, but I’ve come to realise this macronutrient is hugely important for all of us to consume. It can help you to feel fuller, healthier and can actually aid weight loss. Keep reading if you want to know a little more about protein, my top 10 favourite sources of it and to spot which one of my favourite protein foods didn’t make it into the photo!
What is protein?
Protein is one of three macronutrients, the others are fat and carbohydrates, and together these form the foundations of what we need to consume (in large quantities) daily in order to function.
The role of protein
Many know the role of protein in building and repairing muscles, but protein also performs many more functions in the body, such as…
Maintaining the structure and strength of cells and tissues
Producing hormones
Regulating your metabolism and
Strengthening your immune system
Protein and weight loss
Protein can also help you feel fuller for longer too, which is why it can be beneficial to those wishing to lose body fat. Over the last few months I’ve made a conscious effort to up the amount of protein I eat and to switch from carb based to protein based snacks. So far, it seems to have made a difference in terms of my weight loss and I can definitely say I feel more satisfied after meals which have contained a lot of protein.
Top 10 favourite protein sources
Here a few of my favourite protein sources, which can either be eaten alone as a snack or as part of a larger meal, I’ve also included how much protein per 100g each item contains but keep in mind that serving sizes will vary between these foods.
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- Quark 12g
- Fat free greek style yogurt 11g
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- Chicken 23g
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- Tuna 29g
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- Cottage cheese (with and without pineapple) 8
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- Eggs 12.5
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- Ham 21.6g
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- Salmon 20.9
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- Light mozzarella 19g
- Slender blend protein shake 60g