Are You Looking For Protein-Rich Foods For Weight Loss? Try These Healthy Whole Grains

Combination of lentils and wheat flour can make a wholesome protein-rich meal.

Everyone should include proteins in their diet. It is an essential nutrient that the body needs to boost metabolism, increase stamina, build lean muscle and to maintain a healthy gut along with aiding weight loss. Apart from protein-rich foods like eggs, cheese, nuts, chicken and fish even whole grains are good sources of protein and can be easily added into your daily diet. Nutritionist Rupali Dutta said, "Proteins which contain all the nine essential amino acids are said to be complete sources of protein. Whole grains and lentils lack one essential amino acid. Therefore, they cannot said to be a complete source of protein. However, when whole grains are combined with lentils or any other complete source of protein, they can be said to be the complete sources of protein."

Also read: Have You Heard Of Pseudo Grains? Here's Everything You Should Know About It

Let us have a look at whole grains high in protein:

1. Whole wheat

Wheat contains significant amount of protein. Combination of lentils and wheat flour can make a wholesome protein-rich meal. Apart from proteins, whole wheat is also rich in vitamins, minerals and fiber. Rich in fiber, it may put you at a less risk of colon cancer and aid in digestion.

Wheat contains significant amount of protein
Photo Credit: iStock

2. Brown rice

Brown rice is an extremely nutritious whole grain rich in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. However, brown rice is not a complete source of protein but eating brown rice helps you avoid consuming too many calories from saturated fats found in beef, red meet and full-fat dairy. You can pair brown rice with vegetables high in protein, soya products like soya beans, tofu or lentils to make it complete protein-rich meal.

Also read: These Protein-Rich, Weight Loss Friendly Foods Should Be A Part Of Your Daily Diet!

3. Buckwheat

One of the pseudo-cereals, buckwheat has decent amounts of protein. Protein in buckwheat has been found to be effective in lowering blood cholesterol, suppressing gallstone formation and reducing the risk of colon cancer.

4. Amaranth

A pseudo grain amaranth is a complete source of protein as it contains all the essential nine amino acids. This is a fine grain and has a smooth texture. Amaranth can be used for desserts and baking. You can also add it to your dal which is a traditional Indian lentil dish, full of spice and flavor. Simply adding amaranth when preparing dal can increase the variety of amino acids.

5. Quinoa

Quinoa is actually a seed, but can be prepared and consumed like a grain. Quinoa can be a perfect morning breakfast. You can prepare it with vegetables or another high-protein side dish with black beans or corn. You can even add chicken slices to enhance the nutritional value of the dish.

Quinoa can be a perfect morning breakfast.
Photo Credit: iStock

Also read: This Protein Not Only Helps In Losing Weight Quickly But Is Good For The Heart Too!

Whole grains only contain some of the essential amino acids your body needs. Getting most or all of your protein from grains may not be a wise option. It might leave you deficient in one or more amino acids. But they are a powerhouse of nutrients so do not eliminate from your diet. Make sure you consume a varied diet to ensure that you are meeting your nutritional needs.

(Dr Rupali Dutta is a Clinical Nutritionist)

Disclaimer: This content including advice provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information. NDTV does not claim responsibility for this information.