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What Kind of Food Has Protein?

Proteins are found both in the human body and in the foods we eat. The proteins that are in the human body make up most of the muscles, cells, tissues, organs and hormones. They are broken down constantly and then replaced. There are also proteins in the food that we eat. This protein is digested into amino acids, which is then used by the body and is necessary for optimal health. Having adequate protein is very important to this cycle. We can find protein in a variety of foods.

  1. Meat, Fish and Poultry

    • Meat, fish and poultry have the highest amounts of protein per serving. You can get the bulk of your daily recommended amount of protein by eating foods in this category. Opt for healthy choices when you are eating high-protein foods from this group. The best, healthiest choices are turkey and chicken with 25 to 26 grams per 3 ounce serving. Tuna is another great choice with approximately 22 grams of protein per 3 ounce serving. Three slices of bacon and one hot dog have the least amount of protein, with only 6 to 7 grams.

    Legumes

    • Legumes are dried beans and peas and are very healthy food choices when it comes to proteins. Boiled soybeans have 14 grams of protein per half cup serving, navy beans have 10 and black beans have 8. Eating a diet rich in legumes will ensure you get adequate amounts of healthy protein.

    Dairy Products

    • Some dairy products, such as milk, cheese and yogurt, have ample protein which will ensure you receive adequate amounts in your diet. Cheeses like cheddar and mozzarella as well as cottage cheeses have the highest amounts of protein per serving.

    Nuts

    • Nuts are high in protein and eating them will contribute to a healthy diet. Make sure you are aware of serving sizes when you are eating nuts. It's easy to eat too many. A half cup of dry roasted peanuts will give you 17 grams of protein toward your daily goal. Other high-protein nuts are almonds and sunflower seeds.

    Other

    • Other miscellaneous foods that contain proteins are tofu, eggs and egg substitutes and also some wheat products and fruit. A great way to ensure you receive adequate amounts of protein daily is to combine high-protein foods together. For instance, bean and bacon soup has 13 grams of protein per half cup serving. Mixing eggs and milk together to make scrambled eggs gives you 12 grams of protein per half cup serving. Be creative in your recipes to make sure you get all the protein you need to keep your body healthy.

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