Trying to lose weight doesn’t necessarily mean giving up convenient foods—especially if you know what to look for at the grocery store. According to online fitness coach Michael Ballantine, choosing high-protein foods can help you stay fuller longer while keeping calories in check.
In a recent Instagram reel, Ballantine shared several of his favorite items from Sam’s Club that can support weight-loss goals without sacrificing flavor or convenience. These options are packed with protein and relatively low in calories, making them easy additions to a balanced diet.
Here are four picks he recommends adding to your shopping list.
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1. Real Good Lightly Breaded Chicken Breast Chunks
Ballantine recommends the lightly breaded chicken breast chunks from Real Good Foods as a quick, high-protein meal option.
The chicken comes in bite-size pieces similar to chicken strips, making it easy to portion or pair with a side. One serving contains about 180 calories and 23 grams of protein, which can help support muscle maintenance while keeping calorie intake controlled.
To boost flavor without adding too many calories, Ballantine suggests pairing the chicken with simple condiments like ketchup, sriracha, or hot sauce.
2. Chobani Low-Fat or Non-Fat Greek Yogurt
For a high-protein snack or breakfast option, Ballantine points to Greek yogurt from Chobani.
A serving contains about 90 calories and 16 grams of protein, making it an excellent choice for people trying to increase protein intake while keeping meals light.
Greek yogurt also contains live cultures, which can support gut health and help maintain a balanced microbiome. For added flavor, Ballantine suggests topping it with honey or frozen fruit instead of sugary syrups.
3. Caribbean Warm Water Lobster Tails
Seafood is another great protein source, and Ballantine highlights Caribbean warm water lobster tails as a surprisingly diet-friendly option.
One lobster tail contains about 130 calories and 23 grams of protein, with zero grams of added sugar.
They’re also simple to prepare. Ballantine recommends grilling, baking, or boiling them. If baking, he suggests cooking them at 350 degrees for about 15 to 20 minutes, making them a quick, protein-packed dinner option.
4. Old Wisconsin Snack Sticks for Quick Protein
When you need a portable snack, Ballantine suggests protein snack sticks from Old Wisconsin.
Each stick contains about 70 calories and 6 grams of protein, along with just 1 gram of sugar. They’re easy to store and convenient for busy days when you need something quick between meals.
Because they come in bulk packs, they can also last the entire week as a grab-and-go snack.
Many fitness experts emphasize protein when it comes to weight loss because it helps with satiety and muscle maintenance. High-protein foods can help you feel full longer, reducing the urge to snack on higher-calorie options throughout the day.
Ballantine’s recommendations focus on foods that are high in protein, relatively low in calories, and easy to prepare, making them practical for people trying to maintain a calorie deficit without spending hours cooking.
While no single food guarantees weight loss, building meals around lean protein sources—combined with regular exercise and balanced nutrition—can make reaching your goals much more manageable.
