Protein is a nutrient that your body requires to grow and repair cells. Protein comes in both plant and animal sources, so if you can’t eat one, you can have the other. But which foods contain a lot of protein?
Eggs
Despite their bad reputation, eggs are one of the healthiest and most nutritious foods around. A great source of vitamins, minerals, healthy fats, antioxidants, and brain nutrients, they’re high in protein. Egg whites are almost entirely pure protein. One large egg has roughly 6 grams of protein and 78 calories.
Almonds
This popular tree nut is a fan favorite for a reason. It’s rich in nutrients such as fiber, vitamin E, manganese, and magnesium. This nut has a lot of protein as well. One ounce of almonds contains about 6 grams of protein and is 164 calories.
Chicken Breast
One of the most popular protein-rich foods, chicken breast, when eaten without the skin, is almost completely protein. It’s also very easy to cook and very versatile, making it a good choice when you’re looking for a varied diet. One roasted chicken breast without skin has 53 grams of protein and is only 284 calories.
Oats
Oats might be the healthiest of grains out there. They have healthy fibers, magnesium, manganese, thiamine (vitamin B1), and many other nutrients. One cup of oats contains 11 grams of protein and is 307 calories.
Cottage Cheese
Cottage cheese has a whole lot to offer. It’s rich in calcium, phosphorus, selenium, vitamin B12, riboflavin (vitamin B2), and other key nutrients. One cup of cottage cheese contains 28 grams of protein and is only 168 calories.
Broccoli
Broccoli has a lot of vitamins and minerals like vitamin C, vitamin K, fiber, and potassium. It provides nutrients that may even help protect the body against cancer. And compared to other vegetables, it’s high in protein. One cup of broccoli has 3 grams of protein and is only 31 calories.
Quinoa
Though technically a seed, Quinoa is classified as whole grain and is considered to be a superfood – and for good reason. It has plenty of vitamins, minerals, fiber, and antioxidants. Just one cup of cooked quinoa has 8 grams of protein and is 222 calories.