High in Protein (509)

Even if you try to load up on lean protein every day, it can be tough to know if you’re making the grade. And ating a diet rich in protein that’s packed with nutrients (and not high in saturated fat) requires even more effort and a mindful approach. Thankfully, there are a variety of ways to enjoy nutritious, protein-rich foods for breakfast, lunch, and dinner that cater to most every diet. Whether you prefer plant-based protein staples or animal-based favorites, here’s what you need to know about eating high-protein foods.

What Is Protein?

A necessary component of dietary nutrition, protein is composed of one or more long chains of amino acids. In fact, there are 20 types of amino acids that can combine to form protein. Protein is one of the building blocks of body tissue and organs as well as enzymes and antibodies, and it helps the body function effectively.

Benefits of Protein

Because your body needs protein to build and repair tissue (including muscle), it’s important to get the recommended dietary intake every day—0.36 g per pound of body weight. But eating a diet rich in protein can have additional benefits, like helping you:

• Stay full longer (and even eat less throughout the day)
• Build muscle strength
• Get a metabolism boost
• Lose weight and maintain a healthy weight

Tips for Eating More Protein

From meat to supplements to plant-based options, there are many ways to get more protein into your diet. Here are a few helpful tips:

• Start your day with a protein-rich breakfast of eggs, yogurt, or a smoothie (with protein powder, yogurt, or a nut butter).
• Sprinkle nuts over salads, yogurt bowls, or oatmeal for a protein boost.
• Select larger, leaner cuts of meat to up the protein content without the extra calories.
• Snack on apple slices or bananas topped with nut butters.

Top High Protein Brands

Boost your protein intake with these hearty must-haves.

Artisana Organics

To make its exceptional nut butters, this innovative brand preserves nutrients like fatty acids, proteins, vitamins, and enzymes using a temperature-controlled cooking process.

Raw Almond Butter

This rich and creamy almond butter is produced in small batches using just one ingredient—organic almonds. The high-quality butters boasts 7 grams of protein without any artificial dyes, preservatives, or high-fructose corn syrup.

Wild Planet

With everything from tuna and salmon to sardines and anchovies, Wild Planet offers seafood for every palate. Even better, it’s all sustainably caught and helps support the conservation of wild marine ecosystems while keeping you full and fueled.

Non-GMO Wild Skipjack Tuna

Each filet of this exceptional tuna is sustainably caught and cooked only once to help retain nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids. Plus, you’ll enjoy 14 grams of protein per serving.

Kettle & Fire

Created by two health-conscious brothers, Nick and Justin, these premium bone broths are certified USDA grass-fed and perfect for sipping or adding protein-rich flavor to soups and stews.

Kettle & Fire Chicken Bone Broth

Made with just organic chicken bones, celery, onion, and spices, this simple but savory broth can be enjoyed on its own or layered into slow-simmered recipes. Each serving delivers a whopping 10 grams of protein.

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Want to learn more? Get the lowdown on all things protein.

Whey Protein vs. Plant Protein

Could plant-based protein actually outshine animal-based protein? Take a closer look at how these two protein types differ, from manufacturing and production to health benefits, so you can choose what’s right for you.

High-Protein Vegan Foods You Should Try

Just because you’re vegan doesn’t mean you have to skimp on the protein. Here’s a list of vegan-friendly, high-protein pantry staples to keep you energized and feeling good throughout the day.

Protein Powder Pudding Pops

We’re giving this childhood classic a protein-powered spin (20 grams of protein per serving, to be exact), by combining whey protein with coconut milk, corn starch, and organic cacao powder.