It’s one of the most important nutrients you can eat for your health and weight loss goals: protein.
Protein has a much higher thermic effect than carbs or fat, according to Healthline, which means it helps your body burn more calories even when you are standing perfectly still.
Another benefit of eating more protein? You’ll feel fuller faster and for much longer.
According to Healthline: “A higher protein intake actually increases levels of the satiety (appetite-reducing) hormones GLP-1, peptide YY and cholecystokinin, while reducing your levels of the hunger hormone ghrelin. By replacing carbs and fat with protein, you reduce the hunger hormone and boost several satiety hormones.”
Ready to start eating better protein-rich foods? Start with these five metabolism-boosting proteins you should be eating for a faster metabolism.
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Almonds
Several studies have actually shown that eating nuts on a daily basis is associated with a lower body weight. Nuts like almonds are nutrient dense, which means that contain high amounts of protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and vitamins and minerals like vitamin E and magnesium. One serving of almonds (about 23 almonds) boasts 6 grams of protein.
Chicken Breast
Grilled, roasted, or baked chicken breast is one of those incredible low-calorie, high-protein foods that people rely on when they are trying to lose weight or add muscle mass. One cup of diced or chopped chicken breast contains just 230 calories, with a whopping 43 grams of protein, no carbs, and 5 grams of fat.
Eggs
Ah, eggs. Fewer breakfast (or anytime) foods are as nutrient dense, satisfying, or better at providing long-lasting energy without piling on calories. One egg contains 78 calories, 6 grams of protein, and high amounts of vitamins D, B-12, and selenium.
Lentils
Whether you are following a plant-based diet or simply want to change things up and add more plant-based proteins to your regimen, it doesn’t get much better than lentils. This versatile legume, which goes great in stews, soups, and salads, is chockfull of protein, iron, and fiber. Just one small tablespoon of lentils contains 14 calories, 1.1 grams of protein, 1 gram of fiber, and zero grams of fat.
Greek Yogurt
In addition to its probiotic goodness, which balances your gut bacteria and curbs inflammation, Greek yogurt is a protein powerhouse. One container of plain, non-fat Greek yogurt has 100 calories, 17 grams of protein, and calcium, cobalamin, and vitamin B-6. Just be sure to choose plain varieties, which you can sweeten with berries, cinnamon, and nuts. Flavored yogurts tend to be high in sugar.
