When you’re trying to eat healthy, easy snacks are a must. Protein always seems to be one of the hardest parts for a snack. It’s hard to find protein sources of good quality that are easy to eat and prepare for snacking. This list provides a number of high quality protein snacks that you can enjoy on a daily basis and don’t have to spend a ton of time preparing.
1. Eggs – Eggs provide an excellent source of protein. At approximately 6g of protein per egg, 5g of fat and not even one gram of carbohydrates per egg, you’ve got a protein dense snack in that little shell. Eggs also contain Vitamin A, Vitamin D, B-12, B-6 and a small amount of Iron and Magnesium. The best source of eggs are organic, free range eggs that have been allowed to roam a pasture. You can’t beat the price for eggs for the amount of nutrients they provide. At approximately $6/dozen free range organic eggs, you’re only paying $0.50 per egg. Two eggs for a snack contains about 12g of protein at only $1. They’re a huge bang for your buck nutritionally, Plus, they’re relatively easy to cook in a pinch or hard boil and take with you on the go.
2. Rotisserie Chicken – A good, natural, organic rotisserie chicken can provide a fantastic source of protein for meals and snacks. Pre-cooked and juicy, these are so easy to portion out for snacks and take on the go or store in your fridge for during the week. Just remember to take the skin off to avoid the extra fat content. Rotisserie chickens usually come in a variety of flavors from natural to mojo and barbecue. Look for rotisserie chickens that have been locally grown or are free range and haven’t been treated with hormones and antibiotics.
3. Jerky – Organic and all natural jerky can be an excellent source of protein for snacks that doesn’t need to be refrigerated or stored in a specific way. High quality sources of jerky are available no in beef, chicken, bison and turkey. They’re an easy way to get in a protein source while on the go, traveling or if you’re in a hurry. Make sure the jerky you’re purchasing is pure protein and isn’t laden with sugars, sweeteners or any chemicals.
4. Burgers – Homemade, organic burgers are full of protein and can be made to your desired tastes. Grass-fed beef, turkey, chicken or salmon burgers are all good options. Burgers can be made in your preferred weight (2 ounces, 4 ounces, 6 ounces) and can be packed full of spices and vegetables to enhance taste and nutrition profile provided. In addition, they can be cooked in a healthy source of fat to add a healthy fat source and provide more flavor. They can be pan fried or baked and ready in just minutes.
5. Protein Powder – Undenatured whey protein powder is an excellent source of whey. Undenatured whey has been processed in a way that the branched chain amino acids are not harmed. In addition, this type of whey protein can help increase glutathione, a powerful antioxidant which helps to support the immune system. Whey can be mixed with a number of fruits, vegetables, nuts and nut butters to create a delicious shake that can be blended or shaken to take on the go.
6. Protein Bars – Good quality, undenatured whey protein bars are a fantastic snack for work, while running errands or for travel. These types of bars, when not loaded with too much sugar provide a substantial protein kick and are a great option. It’s best to make sure that any bars you are buying have a good quality protein source and are balance with carbs and fat. In addition, make sure your protein bars aren’t loaded down with artificial sweeteners, unhealthy fats, refined sugars and other chemicals.
