If you have embarked on your journey to lose weight and if you hit the gym regularly, then you may have heard about how good protein is for you, from anyone and everyone. You will hardly hear any bad words spoken about protein, unlike carbohydrates or fats. Proteins are extremely important for your body as they help you maintain and build muscle mass. When you work out but do not consume an adequate amount of protein, your body will start breaking down muscle tissue. This will slow down your metabolism and will make it extremely difficult to lose extra weight and to keep it off. You will not be able to bulk up either. Proteins are also required by your body to make antibodies, hormones, and enzymes, and they help in the transport of different substances throughout your body. Without protein, your body will not be able to function efficiently.
When you think of protein, mostly animal sources like eggs, poultry, fish, red meat, and dairy comes to mind, but there are many vegetarian options that are extremely high in protein. Some of them even have a higher protein content than eggs. And, they are considered better than animal sources as they do not store toxins like animals do in their fat. Due to this reason, even if you are not a vegetarian or a vegan, you should try getting most of your daily protein requirements through plant sources. Here are some foods that contain more protein than an egg.
1. Pumpkin Seeds
Pumpkin seeds have 8 grams of protein per 50 grams. They are high in fiber and are a great source of magnesium, which regulates the energy utilization of your body. They also do an excellent job at killing parasites. You can use it to season salads or can relish it as a nice, crunchy snack.
2. Dulse
Dulse is a sea vegetable and is high in protein and fiber. It contains 16 grams of protein per 50 grams. It is also a good source of iodine and potassium and can be used in salads, soups, and wraps.
3. Spirulina
Spirulina is a type of algae that contains 28 grams of protein per 50 grams. It helps with heavy metal detox and is high in vitamin K, magnesium, potassium, and B vitamins. You should use it in small quantities when you mix it with your green shake or smoothies, or you can just mix it with water and drink it.
4. Hemp Hearts
Hemp hearts have 16 grams of protein per 50 grams and are a great source of omega-3 fatty acids. If you are under the impression that they will get you high, no they won’t. You can blend them in your smoothies or sprinkle them onto your salads.
5. Tahini
Tahini is roasted and crushed sesame seeds. It contains 10 grams of protein per 50 grams. It has potent anti-inflammatory properties and is high in vitamins and minerals like zinc, magnesium, and manganese. It makes a great addition to steamed vegetables like cauliflower and broccoli.
6. Flax Seeds
Flax seeds contain 9 grams of protein per 50 grams. They are a good source of omega-3 fatty acids and fiber and they help lower inflammation of the body. Since your body cannot digest whole flax seeds, you should grind them before consuming them, or they will pass through your system without providing you with any of their health benefits. Just make sure to consume the seeds as soon as you grind them in order to preserve the oils. You can add it to your salads or mix it in your smoothies.
Though protein is healthy for your body, do not go overboard with it. Too much protein can add stress to your liver. Due to this reason, do not consume more than 0.8 grams of protein per pound of your body weight.
