High protein foods

What are proteins?

Proteins are large, complex molecules made up of long chains of smaller molecules called amino acids. They play many important roles in the body, including serving as structural components of cells and tissues, catalyzing chemical reactions, and regulating gene expression.

What are the types of amino acids?

There are 20 different amino acids that can be combined in different ways to form proteins, and the sequence of amino acids determines the unique structure and function of each protein. Some proteins are composed of a single chain of amino acids, while others are made up of multiple chains. The types of amino acids are:

Essential amino acids (i.e., not biosynthesized by the human body): histidine, isoleucine, leucine, lysine, methionine, phenylalanine, threonine, tryptophan, and valine.
Non-essential amino acids (i.e., biosynthesized by the human body): alanine, asparagine, aspartic acid, glutamic acid, and serine.
Conditionally essential amino acids (i.e., synthesis by the human body can be limited under special pathophysiological conditions): arginine, cysteine, glutamine, glycine, proline, and tyrosine.

What is the recommended daily protein intake?

Adults should receive a minimum of 0.8 grams of protein for every kilogram of body weight per day (recommended dietary allowance, RDA). Individuals who are physically active, older adults, and pregnant or breastfeeding women require a greater amount of protein than the average person.

Is protein gluten-free?

In general, protein itself is gluten-free. Protein is a macronutrient found in many different types of foods such as meat, fish, poultry, beans, lentils, nuts, and seeds, and is naturally gluten-free. However, some protein sources may be processed or prepared with ingredients that contain gluten or may have been cross-contaminated with gluten during processing or handling.

For example, some protein powders may contain added ingredients such as maltodextrin or flavorings that may contain gluten. Additionally, meat alternatives made from wheat protein, such as seitan, contain gluten.

If you have celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, it is important to carefully read food labels and check for gluten-free certifications when choosing protein sources. You can also opt for naturally gluten-free sources of protein, such as meat, fish, poultry, legumes, and nuts.

Is too much protein intake dangerous for health?

Yes, excessive protein intake can be dangerous for health in some cases. The human body needs protein to build and repair tissues, and it is an essential nutrient for the proper functioning of the body. However, consuming too much protein can put a strain on the liver and kidneys, which are responsible for processing and eliminating excess protein.

Studies have shown that consuming excessive amounts of protein can lead to several health problems, such as dehydration, increased risk of kidney disease, osteoporosis, and an increased risk of certain cancers. Additionally, consuming high amounts of protein often means consuming high amounts of animal products, which can contribute to the risk of heart disease and other health problems.

The optimal amount of protein intake varies depending on factors such as age, sex, body weight, and activity level. As mentioned earlier, it is recommended that adults consume 0.8 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight per day (RDA). However, athletes and people who engage in intense physical activity may need more protein to support their muscle growth and repair.

In summary, consuming excessive amounts of protein can be dangerous for health, but it is important to balance protein intake with other nutrients and to consume protein from a variety of sources, including plant-based sources.

What are some healthy sources of protein in foods?

There are many healthy sources of protein in foods, including:

Lean meats: such as chicken, turkey, beef, and pork.
Seafood: such as salmon, tuna, shrimp, and other types of fish.
Eggs: which are a great source of protein and can be cooked in many different ways.
Dairy products: such as milk, cheese, and yogurt, which are also rich in calcium and other nutrients.
Legumes: such as lentils, chickpeas, beans, and peas, which are a good source of protein for vegetarians and vegans.
Nuts and seeds: such as almonds, cashews, peanuts, and chia seeds, which are also rich in healthy fats and fiber.
Soy products: such as tofu, tempeh, and edamame, which are good sources of protein for vegetarians and vegans.
Whole grains: such as quinoa, brown rice, and oats, which contain some protein and are also rich in fiber and other nutrients.

Incorporating a variety of these foods into your diet can help you meet your daily protein needs while also providing other important nutrients.

Which are the high protein foods?

There are many foods that are considered to be rich sources of protein. Here are some of the high protein foods:

Meat: Beef, chicken, pork, lamb, and other types of meat are all rich sources of protein. For example, a 3-ounce serving of cooked beef contains approximately 22 grams of protein.
Seafood: Fish and shellfish are also excellent sources of protein. For example, a 3-ounce serving of cooked salmon contains approximately 22 grams of protein.
Poultry: Chicken and turkey are lean sources of protein, with a 3-ounce serving of cooked chicken containing approximately 21 grams of protein.
Eggs: Eggs are a complete source of protein, with one large egg containing approximately 6 grams of protein.
Dairy: Milk, cheese, and yogurt are all good sources of protein. For example, a cup of Greek yogurt contains approximately 23 grams of protein.
Legumes: Beans, lentils, and peas are all plant-based sources of protein. For example, a cup of cooked lentils contains approximately 18 grams of protein.
Nuts and seeds: Almonds, cashews, and pumpkin seeds are all good sources of protein. For example, a quarter cup of almonds contains approximately 7 grams of protein.

By incorporating a variety of these foods into your diet, you can ensure that you are getting enough protein to support your body’s needs.

Which are some unhealthy choices of foods that contain protein?

While protein is an important nutrient for the body, some foods that are high in protein can also be unhealthy if consumed in excess or in combination with unhealthy ingredients. Here are some examples of unhealthy foods that contain protein:

Processed meats: Processed meats like sausages, hot dogs, and deli meats are often high in sodium, nitrates, and preservatives. They have been linked to increased risk of heart disease and other health problems.
Fried foods: Foods that are fried, such as fried chicken and fish, can be high in unhealthy fats and calories.
Fast food burgers: Burgers from fast-food chains are often high in calories, unhealthy fats, and sodium.
High-fat dairy: Dairy products like cheese and ice cream can be high in saturated fat, which can increase the risk of heart disease.
Protein bars and shakes: While some protein bars and shakes can be healthy and convenient snacks, many are highly processed and can be high in added sugars, artificial flavors, and other unhealthy ingredients.

High-protein, low-calorie foods

If you’re looking for high-protein, low-calorie foods, here are some options to consider:

Chicken breast: Chicken breast is a great source of lean protein, with approximately 30 grams of protein per 100 grams, and only about 165 calories.
Fish: Fish like salmon, tuna, and tilapia are also excellent sources of protein, with 20-25 grams of protein per 100 grams, and around 100-150 calories.
Egg whites: Egg whites are a low-calorie source of protein, with about 3.6 grams of protein per egg white and only about 17 calories.
Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt is a high-protein, low-calorie dairy product, with around 18 grams of protein per 170-gram serving and around 100 calories.
Cottage cheese: Cottage cheese is another dairy product that is high in protein and low in calories, with around 14 grams of protein per 100 grams and only about 70 calories.
Tofu: Tofu is a plant-based source of protein, with around 10 grams of protein per 100 grams and only about 70-80 calories.
Lentils: Lentils are a high-protein, low-calorie legume, with around 9 grams of protein per 100 grams and only about 116 calories.

High protein foods for muscle building

There are many high protein foods that are great for muscle building. Here are some examples:

Lean meats: Chicken breast, turkey, lean beef, pork tenderloin, and bison are all excellent sources of protein.
Fish: Salmon, tuna, and other fish are high in protein and also contain healthy omega-3 fatty acids.
Eggs: Whole eggs are a great source of protein, as well as other nutrients like vitamins and minerals.
Dairy: Milk, cheese, and yogurt are all high in protein and also contain calcium, which is important for bone health.
Legumes: Beans, lentils, and chickpeas are all high in protein and fiber, making them a great addition to any diet.
Nuts and seeds: Almonds, peanuts, cashews, and pumpkin seeds are all high in protein and also contain healthy fats.
Quinoa: This grain-like seed is a complete protein, meaning it contains all nine essential amino acids.

Remember that a balanced diet is important for muscle building and overall health. Pair protein with carbohydrates to fuel your workouts and provide energy for your muscles.

Highest protein foods per 100g

Here are some of the highest protein foods per 100g:

Whey protein isolate – 90g protein
Spirulina – 57g protein
Soybeans – 36g protein
Tuna – 30g protein
Chicken breast – 31g protein
Lentils – 26g protein
Beef – 26g protein
Turkey breast – 25g protein
Quinoa – 14g protein
Greek yogurt – 10g protein

Note that protein content can vary depending on the preparation method, cooking style, and other factors.

High-protein snacks

Here are some high-protein snacks that you can consider:

Greek Yogurt – Greek yogurt is a great snack option that is high in protein. It typically has around 10-15g of protein per serving.
Cottage Cheese – Cottage cheese is another great high-protein snack that you can enjoy. It usually contains around 15-20g of protein per serving.
Hard-Boiled Eggs – Hard-boiled eggs are a quick and easy snack that is high in protein. A large egg typically contains around 6g of protein.
Jerky – Jerky is a portable snack that is high in protein. Beef jerky typically contains around 7-10g of protein per ounce.
Nuts – Nuts are a great snack option that is high in protein and healthy fats. Almonds, for example, contain around 6g of protein per ounce.
Protein Bars – Protein bars are a convenient snack option that is high in protein. They typically contain around 10-20g of protein per bar.
Roasted Chickpeas – Roasted chickpeas are a crunchy and satisfying snack that is high in protein. A half-cup serving of roasted chickpeas contains around 7g of protein.

Remember to always check the labels of pre-packaged snacks to ensure they meet your dietary requirements and goals.

Should I replace protein in foods with supplements?

In most cases, it is not necessary to replace protein in foods with supplements. Whole foods that are high in protein, such as lean meats, fish, poultry, eggs, dairy products, legumes, nuts, and seeds, also provide essential nutrients, including vitamins, minerals, and fiber, that are important for overall health.

While protein supplements, such as whey protein powder, can be a convenient and easy way to increase protein intake, they should not be used as a replacement for whole foods. Additionally, protein supplements can be expensive, and excessive use of these supplements can be harmful to health.

If you struggle to meet your daily protein requirements through whole foods, you may consider using protein supplements as a supplement to a balanced diet. However, choose high-quality protein supplements, such as whey or casein protein, and to ensure that the supplement does not contain any harmful additives or contaminants.

In general, it is recommended to consume protein from a variety of sources, including whole foods and supplements, as part of a balanced diet.

How can I contact gastroenterologist Dr. Zavos for an appointment?

Dr. Chris Zavos is a board-certified gastroenterologist and hepatologist, located in Thessaloniki Greece, and specifically in Kalamaria suburb, about 7 kilometres (4 miles) southeast of downtown Thessaloniki. His private office is at: Fanariou 8 street (near Aigaiou and Adrianoupoleos avenues), Kalamaria (Thessaloniki), Greece.

Thessaloniki International Airport is only 10 km away from his private office in Kalamaria and can be reached by taxi within 13 minutes from the airport.

Dr. Chris Zavos performs endoscopies at Bioclinic private hospital in downtown Thessaloniki (Mitropoleos 86 street).

You can contact Dr. Zavos at phone numbers: (+30)-6976596988 and (+30)-2311283833, or you can email him at czavos@ymail.com. Dr. Zavos responds to Greek and English languages.