Healthy Protein Snacks
We all know protein is important for muscle growth and maintenance, and one excellent way to make sure you maximise benefits from training is through well-planned meal prep that includes a good amount of protein.
But todays lifestyles make it inevitable that you'll be caught short at some point, unprepared and needing a good source of protein to keep you growing. Yet it's often hard to know which foods contain quality protein sources amongst the shelves of foods that line the shops.
So let's take a look at some snacks that deliver a good protein hit with maximum convenience.
Nuts
We'll start with the obvious: Nuts. You can pretty much guarantee that most shops sell a variety of nuts, but try to stick to unsalted nuts without a coating to avoid extra unwanted calories and sodium. Not only do nuts have high protein content, but also they are rich in unsaturated fat and contain essential minerals and calcium. A favourite is Almonds, which boast 21 grams of protein per 100 grams and contain a healthy dose of vitamin B6.
Protein Bars
We're entering a great time where protein bars are becoming more readily available, which is great news for those who like to keep fit. A number of supermarkets now stock Maximuscle bars which can contain an impressive 20 g protein, and come in a range of flavours and different functional ingredients to suit your goals. Maximuscle bars are ideal to throw in your kit bag, ready to get a jump on post-exercise nutrition as you walk out of the gym doors.
Seeds
Seeds are the alternative to nuts you may not have thought of grabbing on-the-go. Seeds are rich in Omega 3,6 & 9 fatty acids – the healthy fatty acids. Not only that, but many seeds contain a high amount of protein and are ideal for rebuilding muscle. Pumpkin seeds for instance contain an impressive 30 grams of protein per 100 grams, and can be very cost effective.
Ready to Drink Protein Shakes
Much like protein bars, ready to drink protein shakes are becoming a favourite with those seeking the ultimate in protein convenience, and are stocked more regularly in supermarkets across the UK. The advantage with ready to drink shakes is that they contain a high amount of protein - up to as much as 50 grams per shake!
Greek Yogurt
Often fat free, absolutely delicious and full of high quality casein proteins, Greek yogurt has always been a very popular food amongst the fitness community, and is now becoming a star with those who exercise regularly. You can pick up a pot of Greek yogurt in almost all supermarkets and convenience stores, and a 170 gram pot will contain just over 17 grams of protein. It’s also extremely versatile - try mixing in some chocolate whey protein for a real treat.
What about your favourite healthy protein snacks? Anything we've missed off? Let us know what you like to munch on in the comments below or on Facebook.
Article created by Gareth Nicolas
