Top 10 Protein-Packed Foods to Incorporate into Your Diet

Whether you’re a devoted omnivore, a passionate vegetarian, or a fluid flexitarian, there’s no denying the importance of protein. It’s foundational. In fact, protein and optimal health go hand-in-hand. Specific wellness goals aside—hormone balance, muscle gain, fat loss, better sleep, or longevity—consuming enough protein is paramount. To spark creativity in the kitchen (and beyond), these are the top 10 protein-packed foods recommended for a balanced diet:

1. Eggs: A versatile complete protein source that contains essential amino acids and provides various essential nutrients.
2. Salmon: A high-quality protein source known for its omega-3 fatty acids and essential vitamins and minerals.
3. Chicken: A lean source of protein that can be easily incorporated into a wide range of recipes.
4. Greek Yogurt: Packed with protein and probiotics, Greek yogurt is a great choice for gut health.
5. Quinoa: An outlier among plant-based protein sources, quinoa is a complete protein and a nutrient-dense grain.
6. Tofu: Made from soybeans, tofu is an excellent plant-based protein option with added iron and calcium.
7. Beef (grass-fed): A rich source of protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and antioxidants.
8. Lentils: A protein-rich legume that is loaded with dietary fiber, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
9. Black Beans: A nutrient-dense plant-based protein source that is especially rich in lysine.
10. Chickpeas: A well-rounded amino acid profile legume that is packed with dietary fiber, vitamins, and minerals.

Source: Not All Protein Is Created Equal—A Nutrition Consultant Explains