In order for the body to grow and function it needs protein. Protein is a macro nutrient that is composted with amino acids. Protein builds and repairs muscle, which is why when you are training hard and concentrating on building up your muscle groups it’s common to eat more protein than usual. It can be found in pulses, meats and fish but which are the best foods with the highest amount of protein?
Turkey or Chicken Breast
Chicken breast and turkey breast is full of the classic lean muscle protein. The problem is it’s very easy to get bored of the dish, especially if you’re eating it day in and day out. Try eating it in different ways, shredded one day and grilled the next. Add flavor to the chicken in the form of herbs such as rosemary and marinating in balsamic vinegar overnight so it has time to absorb the flavor.
Fish – Tuna and Salmon
Tuna and salmon are excellent fish you should add to your diet if you’re looking to pack on plenty of lean muscle. Not only are they rich in protein they’re also affordable, which is good news for your wallet. Salmon does have more calories than tuna but if you’re working out a lot you don’t really need to worry about it thanks to all the heart healthy fats and the vitamin D. If you are watching your weight tuna is the better option as it has fewer calories but it is still protein rich, ideal for your muscles.
Treat Yourself to Some Steak
Beef is great at providing you with protein and steak is the leanest cut of beef that you can buy. Always research where your beef is coming from, grass fed is always better than cereal fed cows. The meat will be tender, juicy and full of monounsaturated fat that is good for the heart. Avoid frying the steak, always grill when you can and add salad vegetables or root vegetables.
Eat Your Green Beans
You can’t only eat meat and fish, it’s essential that you feed your body all the nutrients it needs, especially when exercising regularly. Beans are an excellent source of protein but they also provide you with Vitamin A, ideal for fighting off the free radicals in your body and dietary fiber (to keep you regular and healthy on the inside). If you’re training but you don’t like eating beef, foods like green beans can provide you with essential protein your muscles require.
Egg Whites
Egg whites are crammed full of nutrients without all the cholesterol that many people work hard to avoid. By separating the egg white you can enjoy all the protein with fewer calories and no fat. A great way to eat the egg white is to make a delicious omelets, the perfect light meal to enjoy after a workout to help feed the muscles and refill your stores of nutrients. Find egg whites and other protein high foods over on the proteinfoodsdirect.com website.
Image attributed to: freedigitalphotos.net
This web page is for information and support only and NOT a substitute for professional diagnosis and treatment! Nothing on this web page should be construed as medical advice. Please check with your own physician about any information that concerns you.
