Counting macros and protein

I’m on a macro plan that suggests 105 grams of protein a day. I would love suggestions on lean protein sources that are easy.

Replies

  • lemurcat2
    lemurcat2 Posts: 7,885 Member
    Do you eat meat? If so, shellfish (super low cal for the cals and protein), white fish, other fish (slightly higher cal but super healthy), boneless skinless chicken or turkey breast or even thighs (although I fit in chicken with skin on easily enough), lean cuts of pork (chops, loin) and beef (lean steaks, 95% lean ground beef), game, etc.

    Also lowfat/skim dairy, specifically greek yogurt and cottage cheese.

    Many vegetarian sources of protein are lower protein per cal, but are low fat -- beans and lentils, for example. Other vegetarian sources with a good percentage of protein include tofu, tempeh, and seitan.

    You can sub higher protein pastas for traditional pasta if you like them -- I've recently been trying a black bean pasta with 21 g of protein per serving.

    Beyond that, lots of other foods you eat may not have a lot individual but will add up. Non starchy veg often have a decent amount per cal (but they are low cal, so it's still not that much). Spinach is one example. Grains, esp whole grains, will have some (and quinoa too, although it tends to be overrated as a protein source). Nuts and seeds aren't an efficient source per cal, but have a lot of other things going for them, including some protein. Egg are similar -- some protein, but not a whole lot per cal, unless you go with egg whites which are very low cal for the protein (I think it's a shame to waste yolks which have other nutrients, though).

    Obviously, protein powder is a possible source too.
  • AnnPT77
    AnnPT77 Posts: 34,600 Member
    You might find this thread helpful:

    http://community.myfitnesspal.com/en/discussion/10247171/carbs-and-fats-are-cheap-heres-a-guide-to-getting-your-proteins-worth-fiber-also

    It links to a spreadsheet that lists many, many foods in order by protein efficiency (most protein for fewest calories).
  • amieek2021
    amieek2021 Posts: 3 Member
    Thank you guys! I don’t eat pork or beef but will do some Turkey and chicken if it’s sourced clean. Fish is definitely a good idea. I need to stock up on that.

    Thanks for the spreadsheet!