Five Sources of Protein That May Surprise You

The truth is, protein is not just about steak, eggs and chicken. Protein can surprisingly be found in an abundance of food which delivers a better protein fix than hard-boiled eggs and grilled chicken.

Protein is one of the most important nutrients for your body. From maintaining bones to supporting a healthy immune system, eating the right amount of protein supports the growth of every organ and ligament.

With many sources of protein out there, it’s time to put the beans, meats and eggs to the side. Here’s a list of five foods that are surprisingly better sources of protein than the usual sources we know about.

Peas

Peas are known to pack a protein punch! Uncommon as they are, peas are a great source of not only protein but also vitamin C and fibre. If you’re not a great fan of plain peas, try mixing them into your salad or rice. With a single serving of peas delivering 8g of protein, there’s no match for how healthy they are. 

Peanut Butter

Peanut butter is one of the most versatile spreads out there. Whether it’s on toast or added to a smoothie, peanut butter contains a high amount of protein. Containing nutrients such as amino acids, Vitamin E and magnesium, peanut butter can also be eaten plain as a snack. Whether it’s on your celery stick, carrot or apple slice, peanut butter can be enjoyed with almost anything. The best part, you can also add it to your desserts!

Spinach

Did you know that spinach packs the most nutrients when it comes to leafy greens? A single serving of raw spinach holds up to 5 g of protein. What’s more, the leafy green vegetable is a rich source of vitamin K, essential amino acids and vitamin C. Spinach has also been proven to reduce oxidative stress, so it’s great to eat post-exercising!

Pumpkin Seeds

When it comes to snacks, there’s nothing better than a pack of seeds or nuts. They’re not only fun to eat, but they also pack a great protein punch and keep you going throughout the day. Did you know that one ounce of protein contains magnesium, iron and protein? Pumpkin seeds are far better than walnuts and peanuts. Not only can they be eaten alone, but they can also be added to your oats, soups and salads! Easy to carry and nibble on, pumpkin seeds pack 6.5 g of protein per 100g.

Chickpeas

These affordable lentils are perfect for those looking to cut back costs. Low in fat and packed with vitamins, chickpeas are also a great option for those looking to lose weight. These versatile lentils can be cooked as up as a curry, used in a salad or mixed with tahini to make hummus. If you’re after a satiating snack, try crispy roasted chickpeas topped with paprika, coriander and cumin.

Main image – Louis Hansel, Unsplash