Key Points
- Protein is essential for healthy skin, hair, and muscles.
- Too much protein can cause kidney problems.
- Always pair a high protein diet with appropriate exercise.
Why should you care which foods are high protein foods? Protein is the most basic building block of all the tissues in the body. Still don't think that's important? Do you want shiny luxurious hair, smooth skin, and strong bones and muscles? It isn't going to happen unless you supply your body with the basic materials it needs to make and repair those things. You guessed it: protein is where all those building materials are found.
In addition to growth and repair of the body, protein plays a key role in the production of enzymes, digestion, and proper immune function.
What Happens If I Eat Too Much Protein?
Eating too much protein can actually cause harm. Any extra protein beyond what your body uses is either stored as fat or used as energy. If you eat a lot of protein, it will be expelled through your kidneys. This can put a lot of stress on your kidneys over time. Any high protein diet should be accompanied by moderate to intense exercise, to ensure that protein is being put to good use. Always talk to your doctor if you have any concerns about your protein intake.
High Protein Foods
Just because most of us equate protein with animal products does not mean that they are the only source. Vegetarians know that protein is important, and they eat plenty of it- just not from meat products. Below is a list of foods high in protein, many from sources friendly to a meat free palate.
How much is enough?
The US RDA amounts for protein varies greatly depending on gender and age. The recommended amount for adults is between 46 and 60 grams each day. Below is a list of high protein foods to guide you in getting enough protein in your diet.
Food Source Duck | Serving size 221 g | Grams of Protein 51.89 |
Fast Foods Hamburger, double patty | Serving size 1 sandwich | Grams of Protein 34.28 |
Dairy Cottage Cheese | Serving size 1 cup | Grams of Protein 31.05 |
Vegetarian Sources Soybeans, cooked | Serving size 1 cup | Grams of Protein 28.62 |
Do not take the content of this article as professional medical advice. It's important to exercise due diligence when obtaining relevant information in matters pertaining to your health. Always consult with your healthcare provider before making any medical decisions.
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