Maintaining a fit physique and building muscle is a journey that requires consistent effort, including regular exercise and a balanced diet. While the foundation of muscle growth lies in your workout routine and main meals, the role of snacks should not be underestimated.
As the central energy source for our bodies, food plays a crucial role in supporting muscle growth and recovery. You should find protein snacks to include in your diet to help you stay on track and fuel your body effectively. Not only are they convenient and easy to prepare, but they can also provide a much-needed protein boost to help build and maintain muscle mass.
What Snacks Are High in Protein?
Buy Protein Snacks
Protein-rich snacks are essential in promoting muscle development and recovery. Here are some easy and convenient products that you can find in protein supplement stores to help you stay on track with your fitness goals. They’re also a great option for when you’re on the go or need a quick protein fix to curb your hunger.
Protein Bars
Protein bars are one of the most popular and convenient protein snacks. They are easy to carry and require no preparation. They come in a variety of flavours to suit different tastes.
Most bars contain 15-20 grams of protein per serving, making them an ideal snack for post-workout recovery or a quick meal replacement. When choosing protein bars, look for options with minimal added sugars and a good balance of macronutrients.
Protein Chips
For those who crave something crunchy, protein chips are a great alternative to traditional potato chips. Their protein content can range from 10 to 15 grams per serving, and their primary ingredients are usually whey, soy, or pea protein.
They come in various flavours, allowing you to enjoy a tasty snack while boosting your protein intake. Protein chips are perfect for a mid-afternoon protein snack or a healthy option to satisfy your salty cravings.
Protein Chocolates
Indulging in chocolate doesn’t necessarily need to be a guilty pleasure. Protein chocolates are a delicious way to satisfy your sweet tooth while also getting a protein boost. These chocolates are formulated to provide a significant amount of protein, usually around n10 grams per serving, without the excessive sugar content found in regular chocolates. Look for options that use high-quality ingredients and have a good balance of protein and fibre.
Protein Cookies
You can enjoy these snacks without worrying about them affecting your fitness progress. They are formulated with protein sources such as whey or plant-based proteins, providing around 15-20 grams of protein per cookie. They come in delicious flavours like chocolate chip, peanut butter and double chocolate, making them a satisfying and nutritious snack option.
Protein Banana Bread Mix
For baking enthusiasts, a protein banana bread mix is a fantastic option. This mix allows you to create a delicious, homemade banana bread that is jampacked with protein. Typically, a serving of protein banana bread made from these mixes can provide around 10-15 grams of protein, making it an excellent snack for muscle building and recovery.
Greek Yoghurt with Berries and Honey
Next, the combination of Greek yoghurt with berries and honey is a protein bomb that you will love. Greek yogurt is a fantastic source of protein with about 10 grams per serving. Pair it with fresh berries for antioxidants and natural sweetness and add a drizzle of honey for an extra touch of flavour. This combination makes for a delicious and nutritious snack, perfect for post-workout recovery or a refreshing morning treat.
Peanut Butter Smoothie
A peanut butter smoothie is a delicious and protein-packed option. You can blend one scoop of protein powder with a tablespoon of peanut butter, a ripe banana, and some almond milk. This smoothie is rich in protein, healthy fats and fibre, making it a perfect meal replacement or post-workout snack to help with muscle recovery and satiety.
Hard Boiled Eggs and Veggie Sticks
Hard-boiled eggs are an excellent source of high-quality protein and essential nutrients. Pair them with veggie sticks like carrots, celery and bell peppers, and you can also add some humus for taste. This combo is a healthy snack that provides both protein and fibre, plus is easy to prepare and is perfect for a quick snack on the go.
Almonds and Dry Fruit Mix
A mix of almonds and dried fruit is a convenient and tasty snack that provides a good balance of protein, healthy fats and natural sugars. Almonds are high in protein and fibre, while dried fruits add a touch of sweetness and additional nutrients. This mux is great for a quick energy boost during the day.
Tuna and Whole Grain Crackers
Tuna is an excellent source of lean protein. Pair it with whole-grain crackers for a satisfying and nutritious snack. This combination is perfect for a mid-afternoon snack or a light meal, providing a good source of protein and complex carbohydrates to keep you full and energised.
