Best High Protein Low Fat Foods
If you ask ten nutrition experts to outline the ideal diet, you will get ten different answers. The options are nearly endless. There is keto, low fat, paleo, intermittent fasting, vegan, carnivore, and everything in-between.
Nutritionists agree on fewer things than opposing politicians. And as they say, the three things you canât discuss over dinner are religion, politics, and nutrition habits.
But one thing nearly everyone agrees on is protein. Protein is every fitness enthusiastâs favorite macronutrient. And for good reason. High protein diets have been used successfully for decades.
We know through experience and research that the best way to gain strength and build an impressive physique is by lifting weights and eating enough protein. Training and nutrition go hand in hand from a muscle-building standpoint.
Adequate protein intake can assist in fat loss, too. Protein is the most satiating macronutrient, so naturally, high protein diets fill you up better than low protein diets. This makes sticking to a calorie-restricted meal plan easier to manage.
But, knowing the benefits of a high protein diet is only half the battle. Not all protein sources are created equal. The best protein sources are high quality, high protein, and low fat. These are the foods to build your diet around.
In todayâs article, we will cover:
Mistake #: Too Much Protein Not Enough Fat
A well-formulated ketogenic diet is moderate, NOT HIGH, in protein. Protein has a moderate insulin-stimulating effect, and although itâs less than the impact from a similar amount of carbohydrates, it can interfere with ketone production by the liver when consumed in excess. Most healthy individuals require between 1.5 and 1.75 grams of protein per kg of âreference body weightâ to maintain lean body mass and function during a ketogenic diet. Intakes above 2.0 g/kg reference weight show no additional benefit. Hereâs where you can find your protein needs on a ketogenic diet.
Baked Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breasts
The spinach artichoke stuffed chicken breasts recipe is another one of my best high protein low fat recipes that makes me happy and healthy. It is keto-friendly and low carb, serve with an optional cream sauce!These chicken breasts are juicy and tender. Spinach cream cheese and other ingredients make this recipe so tasty for meal prep and healthy eating.Calories: 483kcal and Fat: 14g
Related: Keto Lunch Recipes For Weight Loss
You May Like: Barebells Plant Based Protein Bar
Cauliflower Hash Brown Egg Cups
This recipe is for a cauliflower and egg breakfast. Its a great way to start the day, and the fat and protein will keep you feeling full longer than a breakfast that is mostly carbs.
You will need 1 head of cauliflower, 1 egg, 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese, 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 1/2-1 teaspoon of salt and pepper, and 12 small-medium sized eggs. Optional ingredients include 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder.
You can make these ahead of time and put them in the freezer to use during a busy work week.
Calories and Macros Protein: 54.5 gFat: 20 gFiber: 8 g* The linked recipe totals four servings, so the macros above are for two servings. They are different from the recipe as we have reduced the olive oil and substituted chicken breast .
Balancing Protein And Calories In Food Intake
Protein and calories are both a valuable part of any diet.
Maintaining a healthy caloric intake while eating foods that contain other valuable nutrients is incredibly important to good overall health.
The list provided here offers a good start to maintaining a healthy and balanced diet which is rich in protein and low in calories.
Related Article:
Also Check: Orgain Organic Protein Powder Recipes
Lean Turkey Or Chicken Tetrazzini
Some days are so stressful that you just want to chow on some comfort food. After all, comfort food is so comforting.
But comfort food is often packed with fat and calories. And theres nothing comforting about that.
This turkey tetrazzini is creamy, cheesy, and packed with tender morsels of turkey/chicken breast. And it wont expand your waistline.
The key to it being low in fat is that you use evaporated skim milk instead of butter and cream for your sauce.
You also use reduced-fat cheese instead of regular cheese.
This dish is a meal in itself. But if you like, you can serve some steamed broccoli on the side.
Per Serving:
Thursday 7th of January 2021
Hi Melodie,nice! I hope you enjoy them 🙂
Almost Zero Carb Nuts And Seeds
All nuts and seeds have some net carbs in them, but there are a few varieties worthy of the almost zero carb list:
- Raw macadamia nuts 1.6 grams of net carbs per ounce
- Raw pecans 1.2 grams of net carbs per ounce
- Raw brazil nuts 1.2 grams of net carbs per ounce
- Chia seeds 1.7 grams of net carbs per ounce
- Flaxseeds 0.5 grams of net carbs per ounce
It is relatively easy to eat a lot of nuts without realizing it, so make sure you eat them in moderation. Although they are a great way to meet your fat needs, the net carbs and calories can add up quickly if you are not careful.
Donât Miss: High Protein Low Sodium Recipes
Recommended Reading: What Are Foods That Have Protein
Tuna Cakes One Of The Best High Protein Low Fat Foods
Tuna cake or tuna patties is a delicious and healthy easy snack or side dish recipe made with tuna fish and other simple ingredients. It is one of the perfect high protein low carb meals that can be served as lunch and dinner also.Calories 109.8 and Fat 8.7g
Suggested: Keto Fish Recipes For Meal Prep
Make Your Daily Snacks Count
Skip sugary, high-fat and sodium-packed snack foods like chips, crackers, cookies or packaged popcorn in favor of lean protein when you need a snack. The National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute recommends snacking on 1 cup of nonfat milk and three rectangular graham cracker pieces if you’re on a 2,000-calorie diet low in fat and high in protein. Apple or celery slices spread with nut butter reduced-fat cheese cubes plain yogurt vegetable sticks with hummus or dry-roasted, unsalted seeds or nuts are also good choices.
You May Like: Best Protein Powder For Women
Bulgur Falafel Wraps With Yogurt Tahini Sauce
Falafel is a fantastic high-protein meal option for those of you who are craving fast food but want to stick to healthy yet delicious recipes.
This recipe amps up the flavor with pan-frying and a creamy tahini yogurt sauce which is great for your hight protein meal plan.
Plus, it all comes together on fresh pita flatbreads for a fast and easy weeknight meal.
Check it here.
Lemon Pepper Chicken Breasts
Lemon Pepper chicken breasts tender, moist, juicy, and flavourful this recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner. The combination of lemon and other ingredients flavor makes a tasty chicken recipe that is ready in just under 30 minutes.
SHARING IS CARING!
Did you like this recipe and make it later at home? SAVE this pin to your favourite board on !
Recommended Reading: Protein Food For Dogs Homemade
The Best Protein Sources
Choose protein sources that are nutrient-rich and lower in saturated fat and calories, such as:
It’s a good idea to change up your protein foods. For instance, you could have salmon or other fish that’s rich in omega-3s, beans or lentils that give you fiber as well as protein, walnuts on your salad, or almonds on your oatmeal.
How much protein are you getting? Here’s how many grams of protein are in these foods:
1/2 cup low-fat cottage cheese: 12.4g
3 ounces tofu, firm: 9g
1/2 cup cooked lentils: 9g
2 tablespoons natural-style peanut butter or almond butter
3 oz skinless chicken breast: 26g
3 oz fish fillet : 17-20g
1 ounce provolone cheese: 7g
1/2 cup cooked kidney beans: 7.7g
1 ounce almonds: 6g
4 ounces low-fat plain yogurt: 6g
4 ounces soy milk: 3.5g
4 ounces low-fat milk: 4g
Quick & Easy High Protein Meal Preps
As a former teacher, August coming around always brought with it a ton of anxiety!
And a return to meal prepping my lunches.
So whether youre a teacher going back to work, someone who never left the office or a student yourself, give some of these high protein meal prep recipes a try!
Why high protein you ask?
Meals higher in protein are more physically satisfying & will keep you full for longer! Everyone can benefit from higher protein diets, not just people looking to build muscle.
Without further ado, heres the list:
You May Like: Garden Of Life Fit Protein
The Ultimate Vegan Protein Burrito
Beans, quinoa, hemp seeds, and sprouted grain tortillas push the protein content of these Ultimate Vegan Protein Burritos to 22 grams per serving.
Not only are these burritos brimming with protein, but theyre also an excellent source of healthy fat, fiber, vitamins, minerals, and protective plant compounds thanks to ingredients like avocado, cilantro, pico de gallo, and kale.
One of the star ingredients in this recipe, hemp seeds are an excellent source of protein for vegans, providing nearly 10 grams per 3-tablespoon serving (
Here are a few ideas for high protein and paleo-friendly meals.
What Foods Are High In Protein
Muscle building, losing weight, and feeling fuller after eating are just a few of the advantages of consuming nutritious foods. However, while eating a high-protein diet can be helpful, eating a well-balanced diet is vital for remaining healthy.
People who consume a protein-rich diet are more likely to lose weight because they are less likely to overeat. In addition, when paired with exercise, this diet can help in the development of lean muscle. Lean muscle helps with weight loss by allowing you to burn calories during the day.
The following are some of the top healthy foods for weight loss that I recommend for everyone.
When trying to lose weight, people can choose from a variety of protein sources. Many of them also provide extra nutrients that are beneficial to general health.
Recommended Reading: What Has Protein Besides Meat
Blue Buffalo Healthy Weight
Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Adult Healthy Weight Dry Dog Food, Chicken and Brown Rice 30-lb
Buy on Amazon
Made in the United States, BLUE Buffalo Healthy Weight range is the best low-fat dog food from a well-respected pet food brand. This low-fat formula is produced without any extra calories from fats and will help any dog reach better control over its weight.
Satiety is a big problem with dogs Dogs are big eaters and reducing quantities as a reflex to fight obesity is often detrimental to your dogs mental health: a hungry dog is an unhappy dog. In order to assure satiety for your pet, BLUE Buffalo Healthy Weight is making sure fibers are present in high amounts thanks to the use of quality vegetables. Brown rice is a healthy grain providing a sustainable source of energy for a dog.
There are a lot of added benefits to this low-fat dog food such as:
- L-carnitine enhances bone mass, brain function, and muscle protection
- Amino Acids help the dogs body to gain muscle mass and lose body fat
- Omega 3 and Omega 6 are fatty acids that ensure healthy skin and coat
- Fruits increase the amount of fiber and vitamins in your dogs diet
Sure, its not perfect and some people will dislike the fact that its not grain-free but for the price, its a no-brainer and we all love it! Overall a great low-fat dog food at a very reasonable price.
Pros
- Contains a moderate amount of fiber
- Rich in essential amino and fatty acids
- Has L-carnitine to help burn fats
Cons
Fall Farro Protein Bowl
This vegan-friendly Fall Farro Protein Bowl has everything you want in a satisfying meal.
Combine high protein ingredients like chickpeas, farro, hummus, tempeh strips, and roasted almonds with arugula, roasted sweet potato, carrots, and mixed greens for a satisfying combination thats sure to keep you full for hours.
This farro bowl provides 21 grams of protein per serving and takes just 45 minutes to prepare.
Read Also: Is Ensure Max Protein Good For You
Go For Plenty Of Lean Protein At Dinner
For dinner, try 5 ounces of lean beef, a small baked potato, 1/2 cup of cooked mixed vegetables and approximately 1 cup of salad made with raw red and green cabbage, a diced fresh apple and 1/2 ounce of raisins tossed with your choice of vinegar. If you don’t eat meat, have 5 ounces of grilled salmon or tofu with 2/3 cup of brown rice, 1 cup of stir-fried vegetables and 1 cup of fruit. The Harvard School of Public Health advises sticking to skinless poultry, seafood and plant-based protein sources as much as possible. When you do eat meat, look for lean cuts that contain fewer than 95 milligrams of cholesterol,10 grams of total fat and 4.5 grams or less of saturated fat.
What Is The High Protein Low Carb Diet
The high protein, low carb diet swaps much of your daily carb intake for protein.
Although theres no set macronutrient ratio, this eating pattern is based largely on the allotments of the two diets that inspired it.
For example, low carb diets typically restrict carb intake to under 26% of total daily calories, or fewer than 130 grams of carbs for someone following a 2,000-calorie diet while very low carb diets slash that number to under 10% .
On the other hand, high protein diets often pack significantly more than the Recommended Daily Allowance for protein, providing at least 0.6 grams of protein per pound of body weight .
Some boast over 1.4 grams of protein per pound of body weight the equivalent of 204 grams of protein daily for a 150-pound person .
High protein, low carb diets may be higher in fat to compensate for the carb deficit.
For instance, a 2,000-calorie version may contain 26% carbs, 40% fat, and 34% protein equating to a daily protein intake of 170 grams for a 150-pound person.
However, while some people, such as bodybuilders and athletes, pay close attention to macronutrient ranges when following this diet, many individuals simply cut carbs and replace them with high protein foods.
Whats more, some people follow less strict versions that contain 3035% carbs although these are technically considered moderate in carbs .
Read Also: Halo Top Ice Cream Protein
Also Check: How Much Protein Should You Have In One Day
Mustard Baked Chicken Tenders
Mustard Baked Chicken Tenders combines two favorite flavors, honey, and mustard. So healthy, tasty, and easy to make a recipe that you can feel good enjoying on a regular basis. This is one of the best crispy high protein foods that can also go as a high protein dinner.Calories: 412kcal and Fat: 1g
Related: High Protein Meal Prep Recipes
Can You Lose Weight By Not Eating Meat
Yes, it is possible to lose weight by not eating meat.
If youve ever wondered how to lose weight on a vegetarian diet, Healthline agree that a vegetarian diet can be full of fiber and nutrients, however, this is only when people choose mostly whole foods.
Eating a lot of processed foods on a vegetarian diet would not be conducive to losing weight as they often have a lot more calories and unhealthy fats in them.
To help keep the calories down these meals are a healthy addition to any vegetarian meal plan. But as I think youll agree, healthy eating doesnt have to be boring or tasteless!
The simple ingredients found in these easy vegetarian recipes are full of color and flavour but most importantly, they are packed with vital nutrients.
I hope you enjoyed this collection, let me know in the comments which recipe is your favourite?
Recommended Reading: Body Fortress Super Advanced Whey Protein Powder
Super Easy Low Calorie High Protein Meals For Lunch Or Dinner
Losing weight and staying fit is a struggle for a lot of people. It is especially true when you also want to keep your diet exciting and not repeat the same old recipe over and over again.
These ten super easy, high-protein, low-calorie meals are the perfect way to make lunch or dinner interesting, healthy, and delicious. So don’t stress about your diet anymore – these recipes will help you stay on track while still enjoying your food.
Let’s start with ten, but we will keep this recipe idea list growing, adding new fresh meals for you to try out. So you might want to save it!
Savory Cottage Cheese Bowls
Cottage cheese may not be the most exciting way to get your protein, but you can easily jazz it up and give it a lot more flavor.
Want to save this recipe? Enter your email below and we’ll send the recipe straight to your inbox!
Feel free to add whatever you like to your cottage cheese bowl, but I stick pretty closely to this recipe. The scallions and cucumbers add a delightful herb flavor.
The bell peppers, tomatoes, and pistachios add crunch, a slight sweetness, and a little taste of garden freshness. Overall, its an excellent combination.
Don’t Miss: Best Sources Of Plant Based Protein
But How Much Protein Does An Active Person Need
Of course this depends on your goals. But in general you can safely say if you want to build muscle you need more protein than that basic daily recommended allowance.
A higher protein intake is also likely to be beneficial for weight loss.
So, if youre an active person, who does sports regularly, a healthy recommendation would be between 0.75g-1g of protein per lb of bodyweight per day .By percentage that would be roughly 20-30% of your daily caloric income.
This is based on studies that have investigated the rates of something called muscle protein synthesis and how it differs depending on protein intake.
Beans Peas And Lentils
Dry beans, peas, and lentils, also called pulses, are a subgroup of legumes. They average 8 grams of protein per 1/2-cup cooked serving and are low in fat and high in fiber .
The high fiber and protein content in pulses helps make them more filling. Whats more, the fiber may help lower your blood cholesterol if you eat pulses regularly .
In a review of 26 studies in 1,037 people, eating an average of 2/3 cup of cooked pulses daily for at least 3 weeks resulted in about a 7 mg/dL reduction in LDL cholesterol compared with control diets. That equaled an almost 5% reduction in LDL over time .
Notably, pulses are low in a few essential amino acids, the building blocks of protein in your body. However, by eating other plant protein sources over the course of a day, such as whole grains and nuts, you can fill in those gaps (
19 ).
You can remove the skin either before or after cooking the fat savings are virtually the same either way. Typically, poultry cooked with the skin intact is moister .
Summary
White meat chicken and turkey, particularly the breasts, are rich in protein and low in fat if you remove the skin either before or after cooking.
You May Like: How Many Grams Of Protein Per Day To Gain Muscle