When I first started eating clean, I noticed that it was difficult to get plenty of protein naturally. At that time, my favorite post-run snack was still a chocolate protein shake. However, I quickly eliminated this habit after learning the obscene amounts of processing that some protein powders go through. Yeah, I struggled at first with finding clean sources of protein, but it’s really not difficult at all!

Protein bars and shakes aren’t the only forms of protein out there. You just have to know what to look for at the grocery store. Here are some protein packed foods that I regularly include in my diet:

Eggs

Eggs are on my plate almost every morning! They are a great source of protein. And, they never get boring. You can eat them scrambled, hard boiled, poached, and my personal favorite, dippy! Not to mention, they are fairly inexpensive (score)!!

Quinoa

Quinoa has quickly become one of my favorite foods. It makes a delicious and healthy substitution for rice or pasta. It can even be eaten alone (I eat it for a snack all the time!) When I’m feeling too lazy to cook some up on the stove, I love the Suzie’s Quinoa in Olive Oil packs. They get an “A” on Fooducate, BTW!

Almonds

Really all nuts in general. Plus, they make a great portable snack. The only problem is that they are higher in fat, even if it’s healthy fat. So, they may not be a great idea if you are looking at increasing your protein intake and decreasing your fat intake.

Beans

I love me some black beans. Pair them with quinoa and avocado for BONUS protein!

Seafood

Shrimp, scallops, and tilapia are just a few of the types of seafood that are high on protein and low on fat. Salmon is a great source of protein as well, but it’s pretty fatty– a healthy fat, though!

Chicken

Great source of protein to add to your meals. You have got to try some balsamic chicken. It. is. fabulous.

There are definitely other clean forms of protein out there, but those are the ones I mainly include in my diet. My current struggle is getting enough protein without eating as much meat. I’ve been cutting back on meat a little bit ever since reading In Defense of Food. So, I try to only eat it about once a day. I’m currently on the lookout for additional protein sources!

Don’t get me wrong, every once in a while a protein shake or protein bar is a-okay! That’s my way of “cheating clean!” Remember: moderation is key!! I love my occasional quest bar or protein shake from the gym.

How about you?

• What’s your favorite form of protein?
• Do you know of any “clean” protein powders? I’ve been on the lookout!
• Do you track your macros? If so, what app/program do you use?