If you are feeling overwhelmed with trying to hit your protein goal, here is some inspiration for complete whole food protein sources that will help you hit your goal while keeping you feeling full ๐
What is a complete protein source? It is protein source that contains all 9 essential amino acids. Your body cannot make all 9 on its own, yet they are all essential. They help your body function and repair itself. That is why it is important to prioritize getting your protein from complete sources.
Example: While nut butters have protein in them, they are mostly made up of fat. This makes them not a complete protein source, but chicken or beef is.
๐คจ How much should I have?
๐ฏ You want aim for at least 30-35g of protein per meal and then fill in the gaps with snacks.
๐ Here is a list of complete protein sources and how much it would take to hit 35g of protein for that single item:
Lean Complete Proteins (these are best if you want high protein and fewer calories)
๐ Chicken Breast (skinless, cooked) ~4 oz
๐ฆ Turkey Breast (cooked) ~4โ4.5 oz
๐ Tuna (canned in water) ~5 oz
๐ Cod (or other white fish) ~5.5 oz
๐ฅ Egg Whites ~10 egg whites
๐ฅ Greek Yogurt (nonfat, plain) ~12 oz (1.5 cups)
Moderate / Mixed Fat Proteins
๐ฅ Whole Eggs ~6 eggs
๐ Lean Beef (90โ93% lean, cooked) ~5 oz
๐ Pork Loin (lean cut) ~4.5โ5 oz
Fattier Complete Proteins (these are still great but come with more fat per gram of protein)
๐ Salmon (Atlantic, cooked) ~5.5โ6 oz
๐ฅฉ Ribeye Steak (cooked) ~5โ6 oz
Plant-Based Complete Proteins
๐ฑ Tofu (firm) ~12 oz
๐ฑ Tempeh ~6โ7 oz
๐ฅค Quinoa (cooked) ~4+ cups
Another way to help hit your protein goal is by supplementing:
๐ฏ Level-1 Protein Shake - 23g of protein per scoop
๐ฏ Level-1 Protein Bar - 20g of protein per bar
๐ฏ Power Pro Bar - 15g of protein per bar
๐ฏ Meat Sticks - 18g of protein per stick
๐ฏ Collagen with Dermaval - 15g protein per scoop
What are some of your favorite protein source?