If you really want to lose weight, develop lean muscles and improve your overall health, then adding high quality protein to your diet is essential. Protein rich diet helps keep you energetic and full for longer time and supports your muscle growth in an effective way. It contains all necessary nutrients that encourage the development of new cells, help repair worn out tissues and improve hormone production.
|
Image Source : http://www.indiaparenting.com/ |
Unlike carbohydrates and fat, protein cannot be preserved in your body for energy production. Being active individuals, we all need around 1.2 grams of protein each day. So, we should include good amount of
quality protein in our diet, either from animal or plant sources.Why is
protein so important for health?
Before determining the protein sources, we should know the importance of adding protein in our everyday diet. Without protein, your body will not be able to fuel and repair your damaged muscles. Your body is constantly breaking down the current protein stores, so refilling your platter regularly with
protein supply is very important. Moreover, protein contains essential amino acids that your body requires to perform several functions, effectively.
Normally, you will find two types of proteins available- complete and incomplete proteins and you should choose
complete protein food, whenever possible. Now the question is how you can determine the quality protein rich sources and right amount of protein you need daily.
Here, is a list of top foods that are highly rich in protein and provide your body with long-term fuel.
1. Fish:
New research has shown that Omega=3 fatty acids offer astonishing health benefits. This is the reason why fish is becoming more and more popular as a great protein source. It is considered as the leanest meat, containing high amount of protein on the list of top 5 protein rich food sources. It provides your body an adequate amount of essential amino acids that help lower inflammation and control cholesterol levels. Cold water fish, including Tuna, Sardine, Salmon, Herring and more have greatest concentration of healthy oils. So, increase the consumption of cold water fish in your diet for
maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
2. Red Meat:
Second on the list is red meat, packing a protein punch for your body. It doesn’t come up with all the other health benefits that are available in other protein sources. One of the tremendous health benefits of adding beef in our diet is that it supplies high amount of saturated fat. So, limit your intake during the week and get the right amount of protein for healthy living.
3. Beans:
They are the leading vegetables found on the list of top 5
protein rich food sources. They are rich in both fiber and protein, which shows they are great, if you are trying to lose weight and willing to stay healthy.
4. Milk:
This is the first food on the list, which is neither a vegetable nor meat. It is a great protein source for those folks, who are on a vegetarian diet. You will consume complete protein milk and if you are buying skim milk, available on the stores you aren’t adding any fat.
5. Nuts and Seeds:
Both these incomplete protein sources are a worthwhile addition to your diet. Just a handful of nuts can really boost plenty of protein in your diet, which
greatly reduces the risk of certain heart diseases.