High Protein Diet Sources
Protein is found in meat, fish, dairy products, tofu and vegetables. A high protein diet builds strong bones and muscles without adding a lot of fat. Gymnasts and those in weight training look to a high protein diet for endurance and energy. A diet that contains 0.6 to 1.5 grams of protein is considered to be sufficient.
High Protein Diet Foods
Maintaining a balanced intake of high-protein foods is important. With any diet, the key is balance. With a balanced diet high in fiber, low in fat and carbohydrates, it’s easier to maintain good nutrition.
Adding Hi Protein Diet Foods
Working with a daily plan for a balanced diet isn’t difficult. There are short cuts without resorting to red meat or leafy, dark green vegetables like kale, chickory, spinach, broccoli and mustard greens on a daily basis. Legumes like lentils, beans and peas are a source of protein. Lentils are particularly high in protein and make a wonderfully welcome change in salads, soups and stews. Lentils are highly compatible with other vegetable ingredients in recipes. Escarole, a dark green vegetable, is another high protein diet food that blends well in soups and salads. Soy-based products offer the same protein value as meat. Tofu, made from bean curd, takes on the flavor of virtually anything it is prepared with. It comes in various textures for use as an entree or in softer form, as a dessert. Whole grains, like barley, oatmeal and wheat also provide a source of high protein. Most of these whole grains are diverse enough to be used in breads and cereals. For snacking, sunflower, pumpkin and wheat kernel seeds are high protein and much healthier than foods loaded in salt and sugar. Nuts are another source of hi protein that satisfies a mid-afternoon craving for a snack.
