Many of us have heard of macronutrients – fats, carbs and protein – and that we need to consume certain foods from all three groups to enjoy a well-rounded diet, but when we hear ‘protein’, a lot of people will automatically think of meat products and eggs, as these are often what we many of us eat in our day-to-day diets.
And of course meat is a known as predominant source of protein, but did you know there are so many other sources of protein, many of which do not include meat or protein shakes? These are plant-based sources, and while you may continue to consume meat in your diet, it’s good to know other places you can source your healthy protein from.
Animal sources of protein
So, as mentioned above, we can get protein from animal sources, many of which you probably eat already. Healthier sources of protein from animals include the following:
- Eggs
- Poultry
- Fish
- Grass fed red meat
- Milk
- Whey protein
- Cottage cheese
- Feta cheese
- Goat cheese
- Buffalo
- Mozzarella
- Ricotta
- Greek yogurt
Are you consuming the right amount of protein? Find out more about protein here.
Plant sources of protein
These sources of protein, which are plant-based, are some foods you may enjoy already, but didn’t know were a good source and substitute for animal sources of protein. Plant-based proteins include the following:
- Quinoa
- Spirulina (powder or capsules)
- Rolled/steel-cut oats
- Edamame beans
- Lentils
- Chickpeas
- Soy beans/tofu – check out this delish tofu burger recipe
- Kidney beans
- Pinto beans
- Black beans
- Green peas
- Nuts (any)
- Organic pea or rice protein powder
If you’d like to know more about protein sources, how much you should be consuming (portion control), how foods impact your mood, and which foods are best for your gut health, find out more about our newly launched Food & Mood program, designed for long-term and sustainable health and wellbeing. You can get all the details from your local Fernwood club.
Always speak to your health practitioner for health-related advice, or before undertaking a change to your diet.
