If you want more protein without the calories, these healthy choices have the best protein to calorie ratios of any foods.
Looking to up your protein game in 2024? You’re in good company. Many health-conscious folks are boosting their protein intake to reduce body fat, gain lean tissue, and level up their health.
Including lean protein in your diet is a cornerstone of any health-promoting eating plan, especially if you’re aiming to manage your weight effectively. However, not all proteins are created equal. Protein-rich foods that are high in saturated fat, sodium, and other artificial ingredients (think high-fat or processed meats) can do more harm than good, increasing your risk for heart disease, systemic inflammation, metabolic diseases, and certain types of cancer.
Opting for lean proteins, like the ones we’ll explore below, can be a game-changer for your health. These foods, featuring staples like white fish and various plant-based options, can help tamp down inflammation and lower your risk for chronic conditions among many other health benefits.
Now, how did we define a “healthy” protein? While there is no official FDA definition, for this article on the best lean proteins, here are three criteria that I used:
- Low in Saturated Fat: A serving of lean protein needs to have less than 3 grams of saturated fat.
- Calorie-Controlled: A healthy protein shouldn’t break your calorie budget. A 3-ounce serving of lean protein should provide no more than 150 calories.
- No Questionable Ingredients: The healthiest lean proteins are those with little or no added ingredients.
So, let’s dig in and explore the healthiest lean proteins to power up your plate!
1.Cod
Cod is among the highest protein and lowest calorie seafood choices you can make. Since it is low in fat, the calories in cod are kept significantly lower than fatty fish like salmon, mackerel, or tuna. Cod is an excellent source of vitamin B12 and a good source of vitamin B6, which can provide cardiovascular benefits. Cod also provides a modest amount of omega-3 fatty acids that provide heart, eye, and brain health benefits.
2. Haddock
Haddock is another great white fish that is low in calories and fat, and rich in nutrients including B vitamins, selenium, and phosphorus. Haddock is also low in mercury compared to other types of seafood and it provides beneficial omega-3 fatty acids.
3. Chicken Breast
Chicken is the most popular animal-based “meat” protein enjoyed in the United States. Skinless chicken breast is an exemplary lean protein source that has gained popularity for its nutritional benefits and versatility. It’s low in fat, with just 2.5 grams of fat per 3-ounce serving and just 1 gram is the harmful saturated fat. With about 10 grams of protein per ounce, a 3-ounce serving packs nearly 30 grams of high-quality protein with all essential amino acids.
4. Turkey Breast
Even leaner than chicken breast, turkey breast is a top choice to pack in more protein per calorie. It’s an ideal choice if you’re trying to lose weight turkey can help you stay fuller for longer. Turkey’s mild and slightly sweet flavor lends itself to a variety of cooking methods, from roasting and grilling to incorporating it in sandwiches or salads. Nutritionally, turkey breast delivers includes potassium, manganese, zinc, selenium, and B vitamins. A meal with 25-30 grams of protein is ideal for most adults; having more than 30 grams at once will not provide any additional benefits and may lead to increased body fat if calories exceed your daily budget.
5. Fat-Free Cottage Cheese
Fat-free cottage cheese is a great choice to pile on the protein without adding extra fat or calories to your diet. Cottage cheese is rich in casein, the slow-to-digest dairy protein. (Whey is the other main dairy protein that is quickly digested.) Because it takes longer to digest compared to whey, cottage cheese can enhance satiety and reduce cravings to help you stick with your resolve to eat well. Having cottage cheese after a workout is an ideal time to help muscles repair and rebuild muscles. What’s more, cottage cheese provides protein, calcium, and it supplies essential vitamins and minerals like phosphorus, potassium, calcium, and vitamin B12. According to research, cottage cheese and other dairy foods help build and maintain your bones, lower blood pressure, and reduce the risk for certain types of cancer. Plus, cottage cheese provides beneficial probiotics that support your GI tract health.
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