Dietary protein isn't just important for body builders and Paleo diet devotees. "Consuming just carbohydrates, like pretzels or fruit, raises the blood sugar level and then drops it, leaving you hungry again quickly. But high-protein snacks keep your energy levels more balanced and tame your appetite between meals," says Christina Strudwick, RD, sports dietitian for Ben Hogan Sports Medicine in Keller, Texas. Aim for five to 10 grams of protein per snack (at about 150 calories) for optimal fuel and muscle recovery, suggests Dawn Jackson Blatner, RD, a FITNESS advisory board member and author of The Flexitarian Diet. When you're bored by eggs and oh-so-over store-bought bars, try these creative high-protein snacks.
Following a Paleo diet? Fit Foodie Finds' brownie and cookie hybrid allows you to eat dessert while fulfilling all of your nutritional needs at snack time. Let the prehistoric rejoicing begin! 184 calories, 7 grams of protein
A sprinkle of lemon juice helps the paprika, garlic powder, cumin, and curry adhere to Simple Vegan Blog's garbanzo beans. (Psst...these would also be killer tossed in a salad in place of croutons or on a fancy hors with cheeses, and crudites.)
192 calories, 10 grams of protein
These Blueberry Protein Muffins are a great low calorie, gluten free, protein packed breakfast to help kick start your metabolism.
Ingredients