By Leo Cora
Why is protein all the rage when it comes to health and fitness? This amazing essential nutrient helps your body perform countless crucial functions because it plays such a vital role in muscle health. In addition, eating more protein is one of the easiest ways to give your body a steady supply of energy while helping you feel more satiated. Many people agree that sufficient protein intake is important for maintaining a healthy weight. These ideas can help you include even more in your diet on a regular basis.
1. Give Protein Shakes a Try
An easy, fast, and simple way to give your body an extra dose of protein is to incorporate protein shakes into your daily routine. This is a great option any time of day, but it can be especially effective as breakfast, a meal that too many people tend to skip. These days, the options are numerous and you can create practically any flavor profile you desire. Try a tasty vanilla protein shake recipe, or include the protein powder in a fruit smoothie for a well-rounded meal.
2. Keep a Rotisserie Chicken on Hand
Chicken, especially lean white-meat chicken, is one of the healthiest sources of protein out there. It’s also versatile and very economical. Even if you like to cook, a store-bought rotisserie chicken is a great option that everyone should add to their weekly grocery shopping trip. These items often cost less than buying the bird raw, with the hard work already done for you. Pull the meat and use it to make sandwiches, add to salads, or simply eat on its own. When you remove the skin, it’s an excellent lower-sodium food alternative to lunchmeat too.
3. Fix a Big Batch of Hard-Boiled Eggs
Eggs are another high-protein food with a low price point. They also offer the added nutritional benefit of vitamin D and omega-3 fatty acids, two nutrients that are hard to come by and that most people do not consume enough of. It’s easy to add eggs to plenty of dishes, and you can also scramble or fry one in a flash. However, if you want to save time and plan ahead, boil and peel a large pot of eggs and store them in your fridge in an airtight container for up to a week. Then, they’re ready to eat whenever you want a satisfying snack or an extra dose of protein in your next meal.
4. Make Legumes the Star of the Show
Legumes are quite a wonder, and these natural plant-based superstars rarely get the credit they deserve. When prepared properly, beans can be downright delicious, and they’re rich in protein and fiber to boot. For a twist on a classic, consider preparing some roasted chickpeas to enjoy as a crunchy, salty snack that’s still protein-rich.
5. Pack Some Roasted Nuts To-Go
Nuts are another healthy protein source that’s natural and delicious. Most are shelf-stable for quite some time as long as they’re properly sealed up, making them the perfect emergency snack to stash in your bag or in your car. In addition to keeping heart-healthy nuts on hand for hunger emergencies, they’re also a great way to top countless recipes and add an extra dose of protein and much-needed texture. Enjoy them with oatmeal, yogurt, fruit, and salads.
6. Use Dairy Products to Complete a Meal
Dairy is one food group that’s pretty high in protein and fat. A little goes a long way, but it can do wonders to supply your body with lots of energy while keeping you feeling full. That rich, creamy, flavorful addition can also supply your body with calcium to support healthy, strong bones. Low-fat options tend to be the healthiest choices. If you’re looking for dairy that’s super high in protein, greek yogurt or parmesan cheese are some of your best options.
Adding more protein to your diet can be simple, easy, and very tasty. Stick with nutrient-rich options to get the most bang for your buck while giving your body the energy it needs.
