8 High Protein Foods to Add to Your Daily Diet

Protein plays an important role in a well balanced diet, it is essential for the body. The key parts in our bodies would not hold together properly without it. Protein is also essential for metabolism, immune system function and regulatory hormones.

Here is a list of 8 High Protein Foods to add to your daily diet:

1. Hemp Hearts

Hemp seeds are a high, whole food protein source containing all nine essential amino acids.  They also include essential fats, Gamma Linoleic Acid (GLA), fiber, iron, zinc, carotene, B-Vitamins (1, 2, and 6), Vitamin D, Vitamin E, calcium, copper, potassium, chlorophyll, enzymes and more. Hemp seeds taste incredible! They have a creamy texture and a rich, earthy flavor.  Hemp seeds can be blended into shakes, nut milks, nut butters, smoothies, and ice cream for a creamy taste and consistency.  They can be sprinkled on top of food such as yogurt, salads, granola, etc. Hemp seeds can also be used in baking, sauces and spreads!

2. Pumpkin Seeds

Raw pumpkin seeds are truly a superfood! Among the many benefits, they are high in protein, zinc, iron, magnesium and omega-3s. By sourcing living seeds, we preserve their inherent nutrients and enzymes, providing your body with healthy fuel!

3. Chia Seeds

Chia seeds are exceptionally nutritious. They have high amounts of protein, fiber and many other essential minerals. They are also high in Omega-3, antioxidants, B-Vitamins, calcium, and boron. Chia seeds are a great food for runners.  Because they absorb ten times their weight in water as they expand, the water will then be released slowly and evenly into your system. This allows for maximum hydration, which is key when running long distances, during marathons or especially in high heat, where runners lose more and more fluids through their sweat.

4. Bee Pollen

Bee pollen is very good source of protein, 20-40%. It can rapidly pass directly into blood from stomach in about 2 hours after ingesting. Bee Pollen has been considered to be one of the most nutrient packed foods in the world, often called “nature’s perfect food”.  It is an alkaline food, loaded with minerals, antioxidants, micro-nutrients, trace elements and enzymes.  Consuming bee pollen is an incredible way to balance an over acidic system.  Bee pollen contains 18-22 amino acids including tryptophan, lysine and methionine.  Amino acids nourish the brain, protect the body against disease, and play a critical role in metabolizing nutrients. Bee pollen also has an expansive array of Vitamin B complexes, Vitamins A, C, and E.

5. Mesquite Powder

Mesquite powder is high in protein, low on the glycemic index, and rich in vitamins and minerals such as: iron, zinc, calcium, lysine, potassium, magnesium and dietary fiber. It digests slowly and does not cause spikes in blood sugar, making it a great choice for diabetics.

6. Spirulina

Spirulina contains over 60% complete protein (almost three times as much as that found in beef!), it has high concentrations of many other important vitamins and minerals, such as B complex vitamins, vitamin E, carotenoids, iodine, iron, manganese, zinc, essential fatty acids such as gamma linolenic acid (which is only otherwise found in mother’s milk), and more beta carotene than you can find in carrots! Spirulina is also one of the few plant sources of vitamin B12, which is essential for healthy nerves and tissues.

7. Cashew Nuts

Cashews are an incredible superfood providing the body with essential vitamins and minerals! Cashews are a great source of plant-based protein, iron, magnesium, zinc, copper, and trace minerals. Cashews have a mild, creamy flavor and smooth texture. They can be enjoyed plain as a healthy snack, or used to make nut milk or cream, dairy-free sauces & dips, and are a wonderful addition to smoothies, salads, stir fries, and trail mixes.

8. Goji Berries

Goji berries are  packed full of natural protein, trace minerals, essential fatty-acids, amino acids, antioxidants, and over 20 different vitamins and minerals. For thousands of years, traditional Chinese Medicine has used this revered fruit to enhance the immune system and treat more than 100 different ailments. The delightful, ruby colored Goji Berries are an excellent, healthy, high energy snack. These dried goodies give a vibrant burst of nutrients and flavor to any meal or snack. You can add them to smoothies, tea, cereals, salads or desserts.

A Guide to Best Organic Health Foods

Are you jaded with quick fix weight loss diets that don’t work or are you unable to eat healthy food owing to your busy work schedule? Due to our hectic life styles, we often make the mistake of compromising on our diets. This makes it increasingly difficult to shed weight or maintain good health. How often have we resorted to miracle diets and potions, albeit to no avail? Well there is no cause for concern as we are about to introduce to you a natural and effective alternative that will end all your dietary woes.

Organic health foods popularly known as ‘super foods’ are all the rage today and here’s why: grown organically, super foods are packed with all the essential vitamins, minerals and nutrients that promote good health and help you stay in shape. In this article we shall discuss some of the best organic health foods that are available in the market today:

Quinoa

Once called “the gold of the Incas,” and known to increase the stamina of Inca warriors this grain is steadily gaining popularity as health food in the world. This is due to that fact that it is high in protein, and not only high protein, but it supplies the complete protein, which includes all nine essential amino acids. Besides this, it is a very good source of manganese also a good source of magnesium, phosphorus, and folate this grain ensures benefits for persons with diabetes, migraine headaches, and atherosclerosis.

Goji Berries

The Gojii Berry is a much-revered fruit in East Asia, due to its myriad medicinal properties. Also known as wolfberry, this natural super food is believed to bolster the immune system, improve circulation, enhance fertility and improve the eyesight. Goji berries can be eaten raw, made into wine or brewed into herbal tea.

Kiwi Fruit

Kiwi is one of the only fruits that contain Vitamin E, which nourishes the skin and prevents aging. The Kiwi fruit is packed with vitamins including vitamin A and vitamin C and is also a veritable source of antioxidants. What’s more, the Kiwi is also a delectable choice for various salads and deserts. Due to its high fiber content, the kiwi fruit can also be used as a mild laxative to promote regular bowel movement.

Broccoli

America’s favorite vegetable, Broccoli has become synonymous with the organic health food market. This super food is packed with a whole host of vitamins and minerals including vitamin A, vitamin C and most importantly vitamin K, which is responsible for building a strong bone structure. Due to its high fiber content, Broccoli acts as mucilage and is a definitive choice for dieters and weight watchers.

Berries

Berries are a great choice for those with a sweet tooth. Not only do they taste great, but also come packed with a variety of nutrients that are required by the body. Berries are a rich source of antioxidants and phytonutrients and can be safely eaten by weight watchers as they are very low in calories. Besides, berries have a high content of water and fiber that helps to maintain blood sugar levels in the body. Berries add a delectable flavor to a variety of dishes, salads and cereals, making them a versatile choice for dieters.

Nuts

Although nuts may have a high fat content, their nutritional benefits far outweigh their high calorie count. When consumed in small portions, nuts are a very good source of protein. Including nuts into your diet would help you lower cholesterol levels and help you lose weight. Nuts also contain a high amount of fiber and antioxidants, which are so beneficial for the body. Not only do they taste great but are also quite filling, which make them a healthy portable snack for those on the move.

Low fat Yogurt

Low fat yogurt is a very healthy and nutritious alternative for people who are lactose intolerant. In  fact, this super food has higher calcium content than most dairy products and comes packed with a powerhouse of other vital nutrients. The presence of probiotics in yogurt promotes a healthy digestive system as it creates a healthy balance of bacteria in the intestine.

Avocado

Natures very own gift to mankind, the Avocado is a rich source of oleic acid. This monosaturated fat present in the fruit helps to reduce cholesterol in the body. According to a recent study conducted on people with high cholesterol levels, individuals who included avocados in their diet showed a marked decrease in their cholesterol levels. This is due to the high potassium content in avocado, which helps to regulate blood pressure and prevents the onset of heart diseases. Further research has indicated that avocado contains a high concentrate of the carotenoid known as lutein. The presence of carotenoids and tocopherols (better known as vitamin E) in avocado has been found to stem the growth of prostate cancer cells. Given its enormous nutritional value, including slices of avocado in your diet would greatly help your body to absorb the carotenoids from the vegetables and fruits that you consume daily.

In this day and age of packaged foods and adulteration, organic super foods are undoubtedly the healthiest alternative. Not only do they taste great and are free of chemicals and fertilizers, organic super foods contain a gamut of vitamins, antioxidants and healthy fats. Super foods are thus a viable alternative to packaged foods that ensures that you live a healthy disease free life.

[via Organic Health Foods]