As we age, maintaining a healthy metabolism becomes increasingly important for overall well-being and weight management. One key component in boosting metabolism is protein, which plays a vital role in building and repairing tissues, producing enzymes and hormones, and supporting immune function. Protein-rich foods not only help in muscle maintenance, which is crucial as muscle mass naturally declines with age, but they also require more energy for digestion compared to fats and carbohydrates, thereby increasing the body’s calorie-burning capacity.
Including sufficient protein in your diet can help sustain a healthy metabolism, and there are several delicious and nutritious options to choose from. According to Brenda Peralta, RD and Allison Herries, MS, RDN, lean meat and Greek yogurt are two protein-packed foods that can aid in weight management and provide essential nutrients that support metabolic health. Learn more about the benefits of each below.
1. Lean meat
While there are plenty of plant-based lean proteins out there, we can't talk about protein without talking about meat. Certain types of meat, such as red meat and processed options, can take a toll on your body when consumed in excess, but lean meats such as poultry and fish are great choices if you're trying to lose weight.
"Lean meats, including chicken, turkey, and fish, are excellent protein options," Herries says, explaining that "this is because the majority of calories in lean meats come directly from protein." Chicken, in particular, is a tasty, versatile, and low-calorie hoice."100 grams of chicken breast provides around 31 grams of protein with only 165 calories," Herries tells us.
2. Greek Yogurt
Another fantastic food that's packed with protein and delicious is Greek yogurt. You can enjoy this probiotic-rich food for breakfast or at any time of day. It's loaded with benefits for your whole body. As Peralta notes, a single serving of Greek yogurt contains 15-20g of protein. "That's more than enough for a snack," and it's a great option for a filling, metabolism, boosting breakfast. Sign us up!
Even better, you can add a range of nutrient-rich, weight loss-friendly toppings to your yogurt bowl for a tasty meal that both your taste buds and your body will love.
READ MORE: How To Boost Your Metabolism Over 50, According To Experts
