For people trying a low carbohydrate or high protein diet,

it might take some looking to find a nice variety of high protein foods. Here are some major categories with some helpful hints.

High Protein Foods: Meat

Any meat will be a high protein and low carb food. In addition to the common chicken, beef, turkey, and ham, you might want to try some duck, goose, venison, and lamb for variety.

High Protein Food: Fish

Fish is an often overlooked source of protein. The main benefit of coldwater fish, other than protein, is that they are a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids. One danger, however, is that fish can contain unhealthy levels of heavy metals such as mercury. In addition to fleshy fish, such as salmon, cod, and trout, you might want to try some shellfish such as lobster, crab, oysters, and shrimp. In fact, these are some of the most delectible critters on the planet.

High Protein Foods: Nuts

Nuts are a good source of protein. Some are better than others, though, for those on a low carb diet. Macademia nuts and walnuts are among the best for this purpose (walnuts are a good source of omega-3 fatty acids). Peanuts (not really a nut, but a legume), are among the worst, containing appreciable amounts of carbohydrates.

High Protein Food: Beans

Beans are a decent source of protein, and an especially important source for vegetarians. Most beans contain an appreciable amount of carbohydrates, and should be used in moderation on a low carb diet. You also want to make sure you cook beans thoroughly, as our digestive tracks are not adapted to breaking down some of the beans' proteins. Cooking provides necessary pre-digestion.

High Protein Foods: Cheese

Cheese is a great source of protein for low carbers, and even for vegetarians, provided they are not vegans. Cheese has some carbohydrates, and a lot of fat. In addition to the standard cheddar and mozarella, you might want to spread your wings and try some feta, pamesian, swiss, or any of a number of beautiful specialty cheeses sold in any grocery store deli.

High Protein Food: Eggs

Eggs are the perfect high protein food! Cholesterol, you say? Baughhh! Dietary cholesterol has almost no effect on blood cholesterol. Eggs are a great source of protein, and even some omega-3 fatty acids. To maximize the omega-3 content, it is good to get eggs from range-fed birds.

These are a just a few high protein food ideas to keep you going on your high protein or low carbohydrate diet.

Thank you for reading this.
Sincerely,

Jim.

Go to Low Carb General Index