10 Delicious High-Protein Foods to Eat When You're Trying to Lose Weight

 10 Delicious High-Protein Foods to Eat When You're Trying to Lose Weight

Are you trying to lose weight, but need to be sure that you’re getting enough protein? If so, it can be helpful to know which foods are highest in protein, but aren’t necessarily going to sabotage your weight loss efforts with other high-calorie ingredients. The following 10 delicious high-protein foods are perfect choices if you’re working hard to slim down. Not only will they fill you up, but they won’t go overboard on calories or fat. Pick one or two each day, and enjoy!

1) Protein in coffee

Coffee is one of those delicious high-protein foods that you can consume before or after a workout—but what about protein in coffee? Although there are no specific studies on protein added to coffee, some researchers believe it could boost performance. That’s because caffeine can increase mental focus and energy levels and protein speeds up muscle recovery, both of which could help you get more out of your next workout.

2) Soy, soy, more soy (protein)

The first rule of a healthy diet is that it should be full of natural, unprocessed foods. If you’re trying to lose weight, remember that these foods are generally lower in calories and higher in fiber, which can help your body feel full for longer periods of time. Soybeans are one such food with an abundant amount of protein—more than 10 grams per cup! Many varieties are also rich in heart-healthy unsaturated fats. Tofu is a versatile, delicious way to consume soy.

3) Perfect cheese pairings

Cheese goes with everything, and while some are higher in protein than others, all cheese is delicious. If you’re looking for a healthy food that will satisfy your hunger cravings but won’t break your diet, look no further than cheese. Switch out your standard slice of bread for two slices of tomatoes and mozzarella or add some grated Parmesan or feta to your salad. The beauty of cheese is that it can take any meal from bland to delicious—not to mention high in protein.

4) Beans on top

Beans are a perfect food for weight loss because they are packed with fiber, protein and healthy carbs. Beans also contain resistant starch, which feeds your gut bacteria. And research shows that lean people have higher levels of good gut bacteria than obese individuals. Another benefit: They’re dirt cheap! Choose dried beans or canned beans—it doesn’t matter as long as you eat them regularly. We recommend shopping at Asian markets and stocking up on hummus and tahini (sesame paste).

5) Your avocado recipes are looking greener

Avocados are more than just healthy fats. They’re packed with protein and make a great base for salads, smoothies, sandwiches and so much more. Incorporate avocados into your diet by trying these delicious recipes that each provide at least 10 grams of protein. (Try these recipes from Cooking Light magazine.) If you’re looking for even more avocado-based inspiration, check out our recipe archives for a whole host of meal ideas.

6) Beef up your belly

Protein provides a fuller feeling than other food groups. In fact, eating protein has been shown to keep you satiated for longer periods of time, which is critical when trying to lose weight and stick with a healthy diet plan. Research shows that people who eat more protein weigh less than those who consume less protein throughout their day. Aim for lean cuts of beef, chicken and fish (like salmon), which are high in protein but low in fat.

7) Choose chicken wisely

Any of us who have tried to lose weight know that sometimes we just crave a delicious, high-protein food, like chicken. So if you’re trying to stay healthy, here are ten delicious proteins that won’t derail your efforts

8) Buckwheat or quinoa? Get some woha too.

Many of us think we need to eat bland, flavorless food when trying to lose weight. The truth is, you can still enjoy a lot of your favorite foods; it’s just about finding healthier ways of preparing them. For example, you can substitute buckwheat or quinoa for pasta in your favorite pasta recipes; yogurt for mayonnaise in tuna salad or deviled eggs; and so on.

9) Sneak some spinach into your diet – yes you can!

Spinach is a high-protein food that’s also high in vitamins and minerals. Enjoying your spinach raw, sautéed, or even cooked into soups, stews, and casseroles will help you sneak more healthy food into your diet without knowing it. Just a handful of spinach has about 6 grams of protein – half as much as chicken breast! That’s a tasty way to lose weight!

10) And last but not least – get your eggs from chickens with names.

While you could buy eggs from chickens raised in large-scale factory farms, it's better for your health and for those animals' welfare to buy eggs from backyard flocks or small, local farmers. Chickens need some room to roam and socialize—and if you eat their eggs, it makes sense that they should have a name. In addition, when you buy eggs from local farmers or farms, you can also ask questions about how they’re raised and what their living conditions are like.