Yes, moong dal is an excellent high-protein, low-calorie food that promotes weight loss when combined with a balanced diet.
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High-Protein Foods for Weight Loss
If you are on a weight loss journey, high-protein foods for weight loss can be an excellent addition to your diet. Protein helps you feel fuller for longer, boosts your metabolism, and preserves lean muscle mass during weight loss. Here are the top five high-protein foods that can help you shed those extra pounds while maintaining your energy levels.
1. Chicken Breast
Chicken breast is one of the leanest sources of protein. It’s low in fat but packed with high-quality protein. A 100g serving provides around 31g of protein, which can help you build lean muscle and improve metabolism. Including chicken breast in your meals can reduce hunger pangs and keep you satisfied for longer periods.
Recipe Idea:
Grilled chicken with a side of vegetables makes a perfect meal for weight loss. Season it with herbs and spices for added flavor without extra calories.
2. Greek Yogurt
Greek yogurt is an excellent high-protein food for weight loss, containing double the protein of regular yogurt. It’s also rich in probiotics, which promote gut health and digestion. A typical serving of Greek yogurt (about 150g) contains around 10g of protein.
Tip:
Opt for unsweetened, low-fat varieties for the best results. Greek yogurt can be used in smoothies, as a snack, or even as a replacement for sour cream.
3. Eggs
Eggs are one of the most affordable and accessible sources of protein. A single large egg contains about 6g of protein and is full of essential nutrients like choline, which supports brain health. Eggs are versatile and can be enjoyed at any time of the day.
Recipe Idea:
Try a boiled egg as a snack or scramble a couple of eggs with vegetables for a nutritious breakfast that keeps you full throughout the morning.
4. Lentils (Moong Dal)
Lentils, particularly moong dal, are a plant-based protein powerhouse. One cup of cooked moong dal offers about 18g of protein, making it a perfect food for vegetarians and vegans looking to lose weight. Lentils are also high in fiber, which aids digestion and keeps you feeling full.
Moong dal is the key ingredient in the moong dal chilla, a nutritious, high-protein snack. Check out our detailed [moong dal chilla recipe for weight loss] to include it in your diet.
5. Tuna
Tuna is a lean fish loaded with protein and omega-3 fatty acids, which help reduce inflammation and improve heart health. A 100g serving of tuna provides around 25g of protein, making it a great addition to your weight loss diet.
Recipe Idea:
Make a tuna salad with greens, or grill a tuna steak for a satisfying, protein-rich meal.
Why Choose High-Protein Foods for Weight Loss?
Including high-protein foods for weight loss in your daily diet helps control cravings and curbs overeating. Protein also boosts your metabolism and preserves muscle mass, helping your body burn calories more efficiently. A balanced diet rich in protein ensures that you are not sacrificing nutrition while aiming for weight loss.
The best high-protein foods include chicken breast, Greek yogurt, eggs, lentils (moong dal), and tuna.
Protein boosts metabolism, helps you feel full, and preserves lean muscle mass, all of which aid in weight loss.
Yes, vegetarians can include high-protein foods like Greek yogurt, lentils, and eggs to maintain a balanced diet.
A general recommendation is 1.6 to 2.2 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight daily.