{"id":6352,"date":"2024-01-24T16:49:13","date_gmt":"2024-01-24T16:49:13","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/fitolympia.com\/?p=6352"},"modified":"2024-01-24T16:49:19","modified_gmt":"2024-01-24T16:49:19","slug":"15-best-food-sources-of-lean-protein","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/fitolympia.com\/na\/15-best-food-sources-of-lean-protein\/","title":{"rendered":"15 Best Food Sources of Lean Protein"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>You already know that consuming protein is essential in any diet. To maintain a healthy weight and heart, though, choose lean sources.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/hips.hearstapps.com\/hmg-prod.s3.amazonaws.com\/images\/gettyimages-945464588-1570108180.jpg\" alt=\"\"\/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Plant protein, such as tempeh, is considered lean.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>A balanced diet is vital for good health and involves the three main macronutrients: fat, carbohydrates, and protein. While\u00a0fat\u00a0and\u00a0carbs\u00a0have a history of getting a bad rap (hello, low-fat eating and the current star of the fad-diet scene, the\u00a0ketogenic diet!),\u00a0protein\u00a0has long had a so-called health halo.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>But what makes protein so beloved \u2014 and lean protein in particular so salubrious? The answer is far from simple.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cAdequate protein intake is vital to overall health. It\u2019s the body\u2019s building block, as bones, muscles, skin, and blood are all made up of protein,\u201d says&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/app.qwoted.com\/sources\/melissa-nieves-lnd-rd-mph\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Melissa Nieves, RD<\/a>, who works at&nbsp;Kemtai, a virtual personal trainer company in Bayam\u00f3n, Puerto Rico. In addition to those functions, protein aids the repair and regeneration of cells in the body, notes&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/ency\/article\/002467.htm#:~:text=Proteins%2520are%2520the%2520building%2520blocks,cells%2520and%2520make%2520new%2520ones.\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">MedlinePlus<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For weight loss, protein can be helpful, too, because it helps the brain recognize the\u00a0hormone\u00a0leptin, which can keep you full longer and provide your body with energy, explains\u00a0<a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/dishonfish.com\/about\/\" target=\"_blank\">Rima Kleiner,<\/a>\u00a0a registered dietitian who is based in Greensboro, North Carolina, and is the author of\u00a0<a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"http:\/\/dishonfish.com\/\" target=\"_blank\">Dish on Fish<\/a>, a seafood recipe blog.\u00a0<a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC4251481\/\" target=\"_blank\">Research<\/a>\u00a0suggests that consuming protein increases leptin, which promotes a feeling of fullness.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The problem, though, is that some foods high in protein \u2014 think common animal sources such as steak and pork \u2014 are high in\u00a0saturated fat, as the\u00a0<a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.hsph.harvard.edu\/nutritionsource\/what-should-you-eat\/protein\/\" target=\"_blank\">Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health<\/a>\u00a0points out. In excess, saturated fat can increase your risk for\u00a0heart disease, notes the\u00a0<a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/healthy-living\/healthy-eating\/eat-smart\/fats\/saturated-fats\" target=\"_blank\">American Heart Association (AHA)<\/a>. \u201cThat&#8217;s where lean proteins come in,\u201d Nieves says.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In fact, a higher intake of lean protein can possibly lower the risk of cardiovascular disease, whereas a higher intake of red meat is associated with an elevated risk, according to\u00a0<a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/20713902\/\" target=\"_blank\">research<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>How Much Protein Do You Need? It Depends<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Although protein is a vital macronutrient, the&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/healthy-living\/healthy-eating\/eat-smart\/nutrition-basics\/protein-and-heart-health\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">AHA<\/a>&nbsp;warns that most Americans eat far more protein than they need. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that 10 to 35 percent of your calories come from protein \u2014 that is roughly 46 grams (g) of protein for adult women and 56 g for adult men, per the AHA.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>According to the\u00a0<a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/health.gov\/sites\/default\/files\/2019-09\/2015-2020_Dietary_Guidelines.pdf\">U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA)<\/a>, lean protein sources have less than 10 g of total fat and 4.5 g or less of saturated fat per 100 g, or 3.5 ounces (oz).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Ready to make the switch to leaner sources of protein? Try these 15 foods that are high in the macronutrient.<strong>1<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Turkey<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/images.everydayhealth.com\/images\/best-sources-of-lean-protein-01-722x406.jpg?w=768\" alt=\"baked turkey wings\"\/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Suzanne Clements\/Stocksy<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Per the&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/fdc.nal.usda.gov\/fdc-app.html#\/food-details\/171505\/nutrients\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">USDA<\/a>, 4 oz of raw ground turkey has about 167 calories, 22.2 g of protein, 2.3 g of saturated fat, and 8.6 g of fat. Four ounces of ground beef, on the other hand, has about 30 g of fat and 12 g of saturated fat, also notes the&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/fdc.nal.usda.gov\/fdc-app.html#\/food-details\/486316\/nutrients\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">USDA<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Turkey is a substitute for\u00a0chicken\u00a0or beef \u2014 great for chili, tacos, and even meatballs. But turkey isn\u2019t perfect.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cUnlike red meat, turkey is not rich in iron, but it is very lean and contains\u00a0B vitamins, selenium,\u00a0zinc, and phosphorus,\u201d says Mark Windle, RD, a nutritionist who consults and writes for the website\u00a0Fitness Savvy, based in Banbury, United Kingdom. According to the USDA, 4 oz also contains 0.176 micrograms (mcg) of vitamin B2, which is about 14 percent of the daily value (DV); 24.7 milligrams (mg) of selenium (45 percent of the DV); and 2.6 mg of zinc (23 percent of the DV).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>B vitamins help improve blood circulation while contributing to the formation of red blood cells and healthy brain function, according to the\u00a0Mayo Clinic, whereas\u00a0zinc\u00a0can help\u00a0boost the immune system, says the\u00a0<a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/ods.od.nih.gov\/factsheets\/Zinc-HealthProfessional\/\">National Institutes of Health (NIH)<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Chicken<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/images.everydayhealth.com\/images\/best-sources-of-lean-protein-02-alt-722x406.jpg?w=768\" alt=\"creamy tomato basil chicken breast \"\/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Cameron Whitman\/Stocksy<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>But if you like chicken, you can feel good about eating it as far as protein sources go. Just opt for skinless breasts for a great source of protein that is low in fat, notes Nieves.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>According to the\u00a0<a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/fdc.nal.usda.gov\/fdc-app.html#\/food-details\/782116\/nutrients\" target=\"_blank\">USDA<\/a>, one small skinless chicken breast contains 185 calories, 31.1 g of protein, 1.06 g of saturated fat, and 5.72 g of total fat.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Lean Ground Beef<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/images.everydayhealth.com\/images\/best-sources-of-lean-protein-03-722x406.jpg?w=768\" alt=\"ground beef tostadas \"\/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Gabriel Bucataru\/Stocksy<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>When watching your fat intake, you might be inclined to scratch beef off the menu. You don\u2019t have to completely \u2014 just be more strategic with the cuts you pick.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/fdc.nal.usda.gov\/fdc-app.html#\/food-details\/474895\/nutrients\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">According to the USDA<\/a>, 4 oz of lean beef has about 170 calories, 23 g of protein, 3.49 g of saturated fat, and 8 g of total fat. It also has 2.4 mcg of vitamin B12 (100 percent of the DV) and 2.7 mg of iron (15 percent of the DV).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cRound steak or top sirloin and ground beef that is at least 90 percent lean can also be part of a balanced diet, despite the bad reputation red meat has received over the years,\u201d says Nieves. \u201cRed meat\u00a0is a great source of\u00a0vitamin B12\u00a0and iron, which the body needs to produce new red blood cells,\u201d she says. Vitamin B12 is naturally found in animal products including beef, according to the\u00a0<a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/ods.od.nih.gov\/factsheets\/VitaminB12-HealthProfessional\/\" target=\"_blank\">NIH<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Beans and Legumes<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/images.everydayhealth.com\/images\/best-sources-of-lean-protein-04-722x406.jpg?w=768\" alt=\"chickpea curry over rice\"\/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Natasa Mandic\/Stocksy<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Beans and legumes are a lean\u00a0plant-based protein\u00a0that&#8217;s naturally cholesterol-free and also high in\u00a0fiber, folate, and phytates, which are a plant-based\u00a0antioxidant\u00a0that may help reduce the risk of\u00a0heart disease,\u00a0high blood pressure, and certain types of cancer, says Nieves.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Per the&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/fdc.nal.usda.gov\/fdc-app.html#\/food-details\/465794\/nutrients\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">USDA<\/a>, 1\/2 cup of chickpeas contains about 160 calories, 10 g of protein, no saturated fat, 2 g of total fat, and 5 g of fiber (17 percent of the DV). If you prefer lentils,&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/fdc.nal.usda.gov\/fdc-app.html#\/food-details\/528168\/nutrients\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">1\/4 cup has about 140 calories<\/a>, 11 g of protein, no saturated fat, 0.9 g of total fat, and 10 g of fiber (35 percent of the DV).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>According to an\u00a0<a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC4608274\/\" target=\"_blank\">article published in October 2015 in\u00a0<em>Clinical Diabetes<\/em><\/a>, there\u2019s robust scientific evidence supporting the health benefits of eating legumes, yet only 8 percent of U.S. adults eat legumes on any given day. Legumes have been shown to reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes, lower high blood pressure, and help control weight, likely due to the dietary fiber, notes the article.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Low-Fat Milk<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/images.everydayhealth.com\/images\/best-sources-of-lean-protein-05-722x406.jpg?w=768\" alt=\"glass of skim milk next to cookies\"\/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Juri Pozzi\/Stocksy<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>A cup of low-fat milk has about 120 calories, 10 g of protein, 1.51 g of saturated fat, and about 2.5 g of total fat,&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/fdc.nal.usda.gov\/fdc-app.html#\/food-details\/1043787\/nutrients\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">per the USDA<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you can tolerate dairy, low-fat milk is another source of lean protein. It also contains\u00a0calcium\u00a0for healthy bones and teeth, but you should consider low-fat versions \u2014 which are still rich in nutrients \u2014 for a lean source, says Windle. Per the USDA, 1 cup of low-fat milk also has 250 mg of calcium (19 percent of the DV).<strong>6<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Plain Yogurt<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/images.everydayhealth.com\/images\/best-sources-of-lean-protein-06-722x406.jpg?w=768\" alt=\"low fat yogurt and berries \"\/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Lindsay Upson\/Stocksy<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Another dairy product that\u2019s a good source of lean protein is plain yogurt.&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/fdc.nal.usda.gov\/fdc-app.html#\/food-details\/462376\/nutrients\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Per the USDA<\/a>, 1\/2 cup has about 35 calories, 3 g of protein, 1 g of saturated fat, and 1.5 g of total fat.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>But yogurt isn\u2019t only tasty, the live cultures in yogurt help stabilize healthy gut bacteria normally present in the bowel, says Windle. This can\u00a0improve gut function, which may help ease symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome,\u00a0yeast infections,\u00a0eczema, and\u00a0constipation, notes the\u00a0<a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/my.clevelandclinic.org\/health\/articles\/14598-probiotics\" target=\"_blank\">Cleveland Clinic<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Salmon<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/images.everydayhealth.com\/images\/best-sources-of-lean-protein-07-722x406.jpg?w=768\" alt=\"salmon over asparagus \"\/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Davide Illini\/Stocksy<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>When it comes to lean animal protein, seafood is another smart choice, as it\u2019s packed with vital nutrients like heart-healthy\u00a0omega-3 fatty acids\u00a0and has less saturated fat and cholesterol than any other animal protein, says Kleiner.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC4776937\/\" target=\"_blank\">According to a previous meta-analysis<\/a>, eating fish at least one time per week is linked with 15 percent lower risk of cardiovascular disease mortality when compared with those who don\u2019t eat fish. Also, eating fish has been associated with a lower risk of\u00a0diabetes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Salmon is a particularly good choice in the seafood aisle, as 1 oz has 36 calories, 5.8 g of protein, 0.23 g of saturated fat, and 1.2 g of total fat,&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/fdc.nal.usda.gov\/fdc-app.html#\/food-details\/782616\/nutrients\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">according to the USDA<\/a>. \u201cLow-fat, high-protein foods like salmon give you the strength you need to power through a workout,\u201d continues Kleiner.<strong>8<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Tuna<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/images.everydayhealth.com\/images\/best-sources-of-lean-protein-08-722x406.jpg?w=768\" alt=\"tuna poke bowl \"\/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Marti Sans\/Stocksy<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>But salmon isn\u2019t the only lean protein seafood. Tuna falls in this category, too, as it\u2019s also loaded with heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids to protect your heart and fight off inflammation, says Nieves. Three ounces of tuna has about 1.2 g of omega-3 fatty acids, says the&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/my.clevelandclinic.org\/health\/articles\/17290-omega-3-fatty-acids\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Cleveland Clinic<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>And Kleiner says that tuna is among the highest protein sources among fish. Per the&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/fdc.nal.usda.gov\/fdc-app.html#\/food-details\/334194\/nutrients\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">USDA<\/a>, 100 g of canned light tuna in water, with the solids drained, has 96.3 calories, 20.3 g of protein, 0.24 g of saturated fat, and 0.64 g of total fat.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Tuna tends to be high in mercury, though, and contains more mercury than some types of fish, per data provided by the&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.fda.gov\/food\/metals-and-your-food\/mercury-levels-commercial-fish-and-shellfish-1990-2012\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Food and Drug Administration<\/a>. In excess, mercury can lead to mercury poisoning.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The\u00a0<a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.edf.org\/oceans\/mercury-alert-canned-tuna-safe#:~:text=Canned%20white%2C%20or%20albacore%20(0.32,%2C%208%2Dounce%20portions).\" target=\"_blank\">Environmental Defense Fund<\/a>\u00a0recommends limiting tuna consumption to up to three times per month if you\u2019re an adult. For women, each portion of canned tuna should be 6 oz; for men, 8 oz.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Tofu<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/images.everydayhealth.com\/images\/best-sources-of-lean-protein-09-722x406.jpg?w=768\" alt=\"scrambled tofu\"\/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Jeff Wasserman\/Stocksy<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Tofu\u00a0is a soybean product and a staple in many vegan and vegetarian diets. It\u2019s also a good source of plant-based protein that provides adequate amounts of all essential\u00a0amino acids, explains Nieves. \u201cIt\u2019s a great option for those that avoid eating animal products, and it\u2019s naturally cholesterol-free,\u201d she says. Each 3 oz of tofu has 79 calories, 8 g of protein, 0.5 g of saturated fat, and 4.5 g of total fat,\u00a0<a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/fdc.nal.usda.gov\/fdc-app.html#\/food-details\/411177\/nutrients\" target=\"_blank\">notes the USDA<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>According to an&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC6683102\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">article published in July 2019 in&nbsp;<em>Nutrients<\/em><\/a>, soy, which tofu is made from, contains isoflavones, which are antioxidants that might offer some protection against heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and cancer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Per the USDA, 3 oz of tofu also contains 150 mg of calcium (11.5 percent of the DV) and 1.44 mg of iron (8 percent of the DV).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Cottage Cheese<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/images.everydayhealth.com\/images\/best-sources-of-lean-protein-10-722x406.jpg?w=768\" alt=\"cottage cheese on crackers\"\/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>iStock<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Cottage cheese is often used in lasagna and spread out on crackers. Did you know that it\u2019s also a good source of calcium?\u00a0<a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/fdc.nal.usda.gov\/fdc-app.html#\/food-details\/505372\/nutrients\" target=\"_blank\">According to the USDA<\/a>, 1\/2 cup of cottage cheese has about 110 calories, 9 g of protein, about 3 g of saturated fat, 5 g of total fat, and 150 mg of calcium (11.5 percent of the DV).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Pork Loin<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/images.everydayhealth.com\/images\/best-sources-of-lean-protein-11-722x406.jpg?w=768\" alt=\"pork loin \"\/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Kirsty Begg\/Stocksy<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Maybe you don\u2019t feel like chicken, turkey, or beef tonight. No worries, pork can be another lean protein choice \u2014 just make sure you choose the right cut.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>A 4 oz pork loin for the family has about 188 calories, 24.1 g of protein, 3.12 g of saturated fat, and 9.4 g of total fat,\u00a0<a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/fdc.nal.usda.gov\/fdc-app.html#\/food-details\/168314\/nutrients\" target=\"_blank\">per the USDA<\/a>. It also contains 405 mg of\u00a0potassium\u00a0(8.6 percent of the DV), 1.9 mg of zinc (17 percent of the DV), and 27 mg of\u00a0magnesium\u00a0(6.4 percent of the DV).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cLean cuts of pork such as loin and chop \u2014 pork tenderloin, pork loin, pork chops, or sirloin roasts \u2014 are low in fat, making them a great choice of lean protein,\u201d Nieves says.<strong>12<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Eggs<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/images.everydayhealth.com\/images\/best-sources-of-lean-protein-12-722x406.jpg?w=768\" alt=\"fried egg on toast \"\/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Jill Chen\/Stocksy<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>According to the USDA,&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/fdc.nal.usda.gov\/fdc-app.html#\/food-details\/748967\/nutrients\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">one large whole egg<\/a>&nbsp;has 74.4 calories, 6.24 g of protein, 1.61 g of saturated fat, and 5.01 g of total fat.&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/fdc.nal.usda.gov\/fdc-app.html#\/food-details\/783925\/nutrients\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">One large egg white<\/a>, on the other hand, has about 17 calories, 3.6 g of protein, no saturated fat, and 0.05 g of total fat.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Eggs are naturally high in cholesterol, so there are concerns about this breakfast staple increasing the risk of heart disease. However, results from studies evaluating the link between eggs and heart disease have been inconsistent, says the&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.mayoclinic.org\/diseases-conditions\/high-blood-cholesterol\/expert-answers\/cholesterol\/faq-20058468\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Mayo Clinic<\/a>. Some studies have found a link while others haven&#8217;t, so more research is needed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>But although eggs may have an undeserved negative reputation, in addition to being a source of protein, they contain carotenoid antioxidants (lutein and zeaxanthin), which might help prevent macular degeneration, explains Nieves. A&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/30914217\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">study published in February 2020 in&nbsp;<em>Clinical Nutrition<\/em><\/a>&nbsp;found evidence suggesting that consuming two to four eggs per week could reduce the risk of age-related&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.everydayhealth.com\/hs\/managing-wet-amd\/manage-vision-loss\/\">macular degeneration<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>According to the\u00a0<a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.aoa.org\/patients-and-public\/caring-for-your-vision\/diet-and-nutrition\/lutein\" target=\"_blank\">American Optometric Association<\/a>, these carotenoids protect the eyes from high-energy light waves and promote healthy cells in the eyes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Liver<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/images.everydayhealth.com\/images\/best-sources-of-lean-protein-13-722x406.jpg?w=768\" alt=\"liver pate on toast \"\/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Liver might not be your first choice for dinner, but it\u2019s worth consideration if you\u2019re looking for another lean protein source. As a bonus, it\u2019s loaded with vitamins and nutrients.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/fdc.nal.usda.gov\/fdc-app.html#\/food-details\/171060\/nutrients\" target=\"_blank\">Per the USDA<\/a>, 4 oz of raw chicken liver has 134 calories, 19.1 g of protein, 1.8 g of saturated fat, and 5.4 g of total fat. It also includes 10 mg of iron (55 percent of the DV), 3,720 mcg of vitamin A (413 percent of the DV), and 3 mg of zinc (27 percent of the DV). Vitamin A is good for eyesight, notes the\u00a0<a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/ods.od.nih.gov\/factsheets\/VitaminA-Consumer\/\" target=\"_blank\">NIH<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Edamame<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/images.everydayhealth.com\/images\/best-sources-of-lean-protein-14-722x406.jpg?w=768\" alt=\"edamame with chili sauce \"\/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>iStock<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Another good source of lean protein is\u00a0edamame, which are young soy beans \u2014 a classic Japanese snack. In 1\/3 cup of the beans, you&#8217;ll get 8 g of protein in about 100 calories, with no saturated fat and just 3 g of total fat,\u00a0<a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/fdc.nal.usda.gov\/fdc-app.html#\/food-details\/727532\/nutrients\" target=\"_blank\">per the USDA<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cImmature, young soybeans are high in isofavones, which resemble human estrogen hormone. So edamame is admittedly a controversial food, as high estrogen levels are thought to increase the risk of some&nbsp;cancers, including breast cancer,\u201d warns Windle.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In one&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/academic.oup.com\/jnci\/article\/106\/9\/dju189\/907784\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">study<\/a>, 140 women recently diagnosed with breast cancer were assigned to eat either soy protein or a placebo that resembled soy protein for two to three weeks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>After the study, the women had surgery to remove the cancer. When researchers reexamined their breast tissue, the women in the soy protein group had genetic changes that could cause cancer to regrow, suggesting that soy may stimulate breast cancer in some women.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Research is split on this, though, and Windle further notes that it\u2019s also been suggested that edamame could have a slight protective effect against breast cancer. (The&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.cancer.org\/latest-news\/soy-and-cancer-risk-our-experts-advice.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">American Cancer Society<\/a>&nbsp;notes the latter potential benefit.) More research is needed to say one way or the other.<strong>15<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Quinoa<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/images.everydayhealth.com\/images\/best-sources-of-lean-protein-15-722x406.jpg?w=768\" alt=\"quinoa zucchini salad with red onion \"\/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Cameron Whitman\/Stocksy<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Are you looking for a rice substitute that\u2019s lean? If so, 1\/4 cup of uncooked quinoa has 170 calories, 6 g of protein, no saturated fat, and 2.5 g of total fat,&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/fdc.nal.usda.gov\/fdc-app.html#\/food-details\/960317\/nutrients\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">according to the USDA<\/a>. And as a whole grain, it\u2019s also a good source of fiber, containing 3 g in that same 1\/4 cup (10.7 percent of the DV).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/academic.oup.com\/jn\/article\/148\/9\/1434\/5054990\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Research published in September 2018 in&nbsp;<em>The<\/em><em>Journal of Nutrition<\/em><\/a>&nbsp;found that 16 g of whole grains may offer some protection against type 2 diabetes risk, lowering the risk by 11 percent and 7 percent for men and women, respectively. Dietary fiber may be the key to this so-called superfood\u2019s powers: It\u2019s linked to a healthier weight and may help prevent diabetes, according to the&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.mayoclinic.org\/healthy-lifestyle\/nutrition-and-healthy-eating\/in-depth\/fiber\/art-20043983#:~:text=Helps%20control%20blood%20sugar%20levels,of%20developing%20type%202%20diabetes.\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Mayo Clinic<\/a>.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>You already know that consuming protein is essential in any diet. To maintain a healthy weight and heart, though, choose [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":6353,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"site-sidebar-layout":"default","site-content-layout":"","ast-site-content-layout":"default","site-content-style":"default","site-sidebar-style":"default","ast-global-header-display":"","ast-banner-title-visibility":"","ast-main-header-display":"","ast-hfb-above-header-display":"","ast-hfb-below-header-display":"","ast-hfb-mobile-header-display":"","site-post-title":"","ast-breadcrumbs-content":"","ast-featured-img":"","footer-sml-layout":"","theme-transparent-header-meta":"","adv-header-id-meta":"","stick-header-meta":"","header-above-stick-meta":"","header-main-stick-meta":"","header-below-stick-meta":"","astra-migrate-meta-layouts":"default","ast-page-background-enabled":"default","ast-page-background-meta":{"desktop":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-5)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center 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