There are many protein powders available in the market as a supplement to those who workout or as a prescription by doctor. The commercially available protein powders are packed with chemicals, antibiotics and many other processed ingredients. Try these protein-packed real foods instead:
FLAX SEEDS: Flax seeds provide 2gm od protein per table-spoon of its powder. They can be added to your regular smoothie of any flavour to add in a nutty punch. Buy them whole for maximum shelf life and use a coffee grinder to get their full nutritional value.
COCONUT MILK: Coconut milk can supplement you with 5 grams of protein per cup! Add it to your smoothie instead of milk/liquid. It also adds on to the flavour. Top health and beauty benefits of coconut milk >>
PEANUT BUTTER: You can make an amazing smoothie with this wonder ingredient. It not only tastes yummm but also provides 3.5gm protein per tablespoon. Mix it with dark chocolate and milk for a protein loaded yummy smoothie!
SEA WEED: Some sea weeds can block fat absorption by 75%. Add some in your smoothie for a solid dose of protein!
OATS: Load your smoothie with an extra dose of protein with oats! Every cup of oats provides 11 gms of protein. Grind them it to a thick paste and mix with apple puree and milk.
CHIA SEEDS: Chia seeds are such a powerhouse! They are full of fibre, omega-3 fatty acids, calcium and about 4 grams of protein per table-spoon. They are an easy way to add protein to your diet as they need not be grinded unlike flax seeds to get the nutrients. Best benefits of chia seeds >
MILK: One cup of fat-free organic milk has an impressive 8 grams of protein. Milk can be an excellent replacement of water in your smoothie, besides you can add up fruits too as they complement milk very well.
PUMPKIN SEEDS: Proteins are an easy way to add protein (3gm/tbsp.), magnesium, zinc, omega-3s, and lots of other nutrients to your diet. Pumpkin seeds are also full of tryptophan. Grind them or add roasted to add a bit of crunchiness to your smoothie!
ALMONDS: Per tablespoon of almond will add 2 grams of protein to your smoothie. Grind them or slice them to thin flakes for a yummy smoothie with nutty taste.
RAW EGG: Raw eggs are not restricted to body builders, you can easily add them to your smoothie for a silky smooth texture and a nice dose of protein. Each egg provides 6 grams of protein so you may add 1-2 eggs depending upon your needs. Make sure you opt for organic, free-range eggs as they add up to the nutrition and there is a potentially lower risk of salmonella.
YOGHURT: Non-fat yoghurt has 14 grams of protein per cup! Add them to your smoothie as they not only provide lots of protein but also adds on to the creamy taste.
WALNUTS: Who doesn’t like walnuts? We all do. One-fourth cup of walnuts will add about 4.5 grams of protein to your smoothie, not to mention ample doses of heart-healthy potassium and energy-boosting magnesium.
Add these natural proteins to your smoothie without worrying about synthetic nature and unnatural chemical agents associated with commercial protein powders.