Healthful food that is high in protein will help you build muscle, burn fat and suppress your appetite. A high-protein diet should consist of lean meat, low fat dairy, fruits and vegetables to help you reach your fitness goals. Avoid processed foods that are high in calories, refined sugars and added chemicals as they will slow metabolic functions and contain little or no protein.
Lean Meat
A source of lean protein such as fish or poultry will help you build and repair muscle tissue, boost basic metabolic functions and keep you satiated. If you're partial to red meat, then it's best to go with the leanest cuts to avoid high saturated fat content, says the Harvard School of Public Health. Lamb, pork, ribs and other fatty meats should be avoided or consumed sparingly as they are high in calories and saturated fat. Eggs are a source of lean protein, which is found in the egg white, and healthy fat, found in the yolk portion. People who are watching their fat or cholesterol intake should prepare their eggs without the yolk.
Low-Fat Dairy
Low-fat dairy products are high in protein and will save you the additional fat and sugar found in whole fat dairy foods. Choose low-fat versions of your favorite dairy foods, including milk, cheese, yogurt and cottage cheese as a protein rich snack or a healthy alternative in your recipes. Many low-fat dairy products can replace high-calorie ingredients. Try low-fat frozen yogurt instead of ice cream, low-fat cream cheese instead of ricotta cheese and low-fat milk instead of whole milk.
Fruits and Vegetables
Fruit contains fiber, which keeps you fuller longer, natural sugar to satisfy your sweet cravings and antioxidants to boost your immune system. Fruit is a healthy, portable snack that you can grab when you're in a rush out the door. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that you add sliced fruit to your cereal to reduce the total calories while enjoying a full bowl. Vegetables are fibrous, low in calories and provide vitamins and minerals. Add veggies to your favorite dish to get full without the need for high-calorie foods such as cheese or bread.
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