Experts Say This High-Protein Food Will Also Boost Your Metabolism

When it comes to weight loss, protein isn’t just about building or defining muscle; it plays a central role in metabolic health, satiety, and long-term fat loss. “Protein helps preserve lean muscle during weight loss, ensuring that more of the weight lost comes from fat rather than muscle,” explains Pooja Gidwani, M.D., double-board-certified physician in Internal Medicine and Obesity Medicine. “Skeletal muscle is one of the body’s most metabolically active tissues. Preserving muscle while losing weight helps protect strength, function, and long-term weight maintenance.”

For women navigating hormonal shifts such as perimenopause, menopause, or PCOS, protein becomes even more critical. Higher protein intakes can improve insulin sensitivity, reduce cravings, and stabilize blood sugar, explains Lorraine Kearney, RDN, CDN. “As estrogen declines, we often see a loss of lean muscle and a slower metabolic rate,” says Kearney. “Increasing protein helps preserve muscle, support metabolism, and improve body composition.”

Protein also helps people feel fuller for longer, naturally reducing calorie intake while stabilizing energy and preventing late-night snacking. Experts generally recommend aiming for roughly 20 to 30 grams of protein per meal, which can come from a single high-protein food or a combination of sources. That’s the approach behind this curated list of ten high-protein foods for weight loss, which includes lean meats, dairy, beans, nuts, seeds, and grains—offering options for every eating style, from plant-based to omnivorous, to support muscle, metabolism, and satiety.

1) Sardines

22 grams per serving (3 oz, canned in water)

Tinned fish is trending right now, and sardines are leading the way as a protein-packed, nutrient-dense option. A 3-ounce serving provides roughly 22 grams of complete protein, supporting lean muscle preservation during weight loss. Beyond protein, sardines are rich in heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids, calcium (especially if you eat the bones), vitamin D, and selenium — nutrients that support metabolism, bone health, and overall wellness. For weight loss, sardines are particularly effective because the combination of protein and healthy fats helps you feel fuller for longer, naturally curbing cravings and late-night snacking.

They’re also convenient and easy to add to meals: enjoy them straight from the can, atop salads or grain bowls, or paired with avocado, lemon, or mustard for a quick, balanced meal. When choosing sardines, look for varieties canned in water rather than oil to keep calories in check, and prioritize sustainably sourced options, such as those certified by the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC), to support responsible fishing practices.

2) Chicken Breast

26 g per serving (3 oz, cooked)

Chicken breast is a classic high-protein food because it’s packed with complete protein, containing all nine essential amino acids your body needs to preserve lean muscle. During weight loss, these amino acids are crucial for maintaining muscle mass while shedding fat, which supports metabolism, strength, and long-term weight maintenance.

A 3-ounce serving delivers roughly 26 grams of protein while staying low in fat, making it ideal for calorie-conscious meals. Chicken breast can be grilled, baked, poached, or stir-fried, and simple flavor boosters like herbs, spices, or citrus keep it delicious without adding extra calories. To keep it lean, trim visible fat, remove the skin, and skip heavy frying or creamy sauces. Try this Moroccan Spiced Chicken and Couscous recipe.

3) Lean Ground Turkey

22 g per serving (3 oz, cooked)

Lean ground turkey is a versatile, high-protein option that provides a complete amino acid profile, helping preserve lean muscle during weight loss. With roughly 22 grams of protein per 3-ounce serving, it delivers a strong protein boost while remaining relatively low in fat and calories. It’s also a good source of iron, which supports energy levels and overall health. Umo Callins, MS, RD, LD, CSSD, CPT, a Sports Dietitian and Fitness coach notes, it’s “great for iron and protein, especially in active women,” and is “very versatile and great for tacos, rice bowls, or one-pan meals,” making it easy to incorporate into everyday cooking. Ground turkey can be sautéed, baked, or used in meatballs, chili, and casseroles. To keep it lean, choose 93% lean or higher and drain excess fat after cooking. Season with herbs and spices rather than heavy sauces.

4) Lentils

18 g per serving (1 cup, cooked)

Lentils are a plant-based protein powerhouse, providing roughly 18 grams of protein per cooked cup along with fiber, iron, and B vitamins. They’re also rich in complex carbohydrates and soluble fiber, which help slow digestion and stabilize blood sugar which is key for managing cravings and supporting weight loss. They’re “budget-friendly and provide protein and fiber,” and are “great added in soups, stews, or mixed into rice or grain bowls,” making them an easy, practical staple, says Callins.

Lentils come dry or canned; the latter of which should be rinsed to help reduce sodium. Research supports the role of lentils and other legumes in weight management, with studies showing improvements in satiety, body composition, and weight loss outcomes when included regularly in the diet.

5) Edamame

17 g per serving (1 cup, shelled)

Edamame, or young soybeans, are a plant-based protein, providing roughly 17 grams per cup along with fiber, iron, and a variety of vitamins and minerals. What makes edamame especially interesting for women in perimenopause and menopause is its content of phytoestrogens, naturally occurring plant compounds that may help support hormone balance in some women during times of decline.

The combination of protein and fiber in edamame helps retain lean muscle, stabilize blood sugar, and increase satiety, making it a smart choice for weight management. It’s also incredibly versatile—enjoy it steamed as a snack, tossed into salads, stir-fries, or grain bowls, or even lightly roasted for a crunchy treat. Or this delicious Fried Rice with Edamame dish. When buying edamame, you can choose frozen shelled pods or fresh edamame, which are convenient and maintain most of their nutritional value.

6) Tempeh

15 g per serving (1/2 cup)

Tempeh is a fermented soy product that originated in Indonesia. Unlike tofu, it’s made from whole soybeans, which are lightly fermented to create a firm, nutty-textured cake. This fermentation not only enhances digestibility but also boosts the availability of nutrients including protein, iron, and B vitamins. A ½ cup serving of tempeh provides roughly 15–16 grams of protein. Tempeh is especially valuable for plant-based eaters, as it’s a complete protein containing all nine essential amino acids.

Cooking tempeh is simple: it can be sautéed, baked, grilled, crumbled into stir-fries, or even marinated for sandwiches and bowls. To maximize flavor, use herbs, spices, or low-sugar sauces. Because tempeh is fermented, it may also offer probiotic benefits that support gut health, which can indirectly influence metabolism and appetite regulation. For optimal nutrition, look for organic varieties, which ensure high-quality soybeans and minimal additives.

7) Greek Yogurt

15 g per serving (1 cup, low fat)

Greek yogurt is a high-protein dairy option, delivering roughly 15–20 grams of protein per cup, depending on the brand. It also contains calcium, vitamin B12, and probiotics, which support bone and gut health. The combination of protein and probiotics may help stabilize blood sugar and reduce cravings, making it a practical choice for weight management.

“A high-protein yogurt bowl paired with a mix of chia, flaxseeds, and pumpkin seeds can help maximize protein while adding nutrients like zinc, magnesium, and omega-3s,” says Kearney. “Topping it with pomegranate seeds adds folate, vitamin C, and polyphenols.” Bonus: Look for options with live active cultures and minimal added sugar.

8) Hemp Seeds

10 g per serving (3 tbsp)

Hemp seeds are a plant-based protein source, providing roughly 10 grams of protein per 3-tablespoon serving. They’re considered a complete protein, containing all nine essential amino acids, which can be difficult to find in plant foods. They also provide omega-3 fatty acids, along with magnesium, iron, and fiber, adding to their overall nutrient density. Because they’re mild in flavor and require no cooking, hemp seeds are an easy way to boost protein intake. They can be added to smoothies, oatmeal, salads, or yogurt, or blended into quick snacks or energy bites.

“They’re the perfect addition to bean or lentil stews, salads, or overnight oats, adding a subtle nutty flavor and satisfying crunch,” says Kearney. Because they’re mild in flavor, hemp seeds are an easy, convenient way for plant-based or mixed-diet eaters to support muscle maintenance, stabilize blood sugar, curb cravings, and promote overall metabolic health throughout the day.

9) Quinoa

8 g per serving (1 cup, cooked)

Quinoa is a high-protein ancient grain that provides roughly 8 grams of protein per cooked cup and is one of the few plant-based sources considered a complete protein with nine essential amino acids. It’s also rich in fiber, magnesium, and B vitamins, supporting digestion, metabolism, and overall wellness. For weight management, quinoa’s combination of protein and fiber helps increase satiety and stabilize blood sugar, making it helpful to stick to weight loss goals while preserving lean muscle. Its versatility makes it a go-to ingredient: Use it as a base for grain bowls, salads, stir-fries, or even breakfast porridge. To maximize nutrition, choose whole, minimally processed quinoa and rinse thoroughly before cooking.

10) Eggs

6 g per serving (1 egg)

Eggs are a nutrient-dense, high-quality protein source, providing roughly 12 grams of protein from two large eggs. They contain all essential amino acids and are rich in choline, and key nutrients including vitamin B12, vitamin D, and selenium. They can also help keep you full between meals.

“They are a simple, affordable, high-quality protein,” says Callins. “They are great scrambled with veggies, or boiled for quick snacks.” Eggs are easy to incorporate into meals—try them poached or in omelets and frittatas. Pair eggs with vegetables or whole grains for a balanced plate, and use minimal added fats when cooking.

When choosing eggs, pasture-raised or omega-3 enriched options may offer added nutritional benefits, though all eggs provide strong protein value.

Does eating more protein automatically lead to weight loss?

Eating more protein doesn’t automatically lead to weight loss. As Callins explains, while protein can help increase satiety, support muscle retention during a calorie deficit, and slightly boost calorie burn, these benefits don’t override overall energy balance. You can still eat a high-protein diet and not lose weight if your total calorie intake exceeds what your body needs. Kearney adds that protein has a higher thermic effect of food (TEF), meaning the body burns slightly more calories digesting it compared to carbohydrates or fats. However, this boost in calorie burn is modest, so protein’s main role in weight management is supporting muscle preservation and satiety rather than dramatically increasing energy expenditure.

Are plant-based proteins just as effective as animal proteins?

Plant proteins can be just as effective for weight loss as animal proteins, but it depends on how they’re incorporated into the diet. Callins explains that animal proteins are considered complete proteins, meaning they provide all essential amino acids in adequate amounts, which can make it easier to maintain muscle during a calorie deficit. That said, plant-based proteins can still support weight loss when planned thoughtfully. Combining sources like rice and beans or choosing higher-quality options such as soy, lentils, or pea protein can help ensure a more complete amino acid profile. She also notes that in some cases, a slightly higher total protein intake may be needed to achieve the same muscle-supporting effect.

Ultimately, the goal of weight loss isn’t just reducing the number on the scale, but losing body fat while preserving lean mass. While animal proteins may make this a bit easier, Callins emphasizes that plant-based approaches can be just as effective when balanced properly.

Does spreading protein intake across meals versus consuming it in one or two sittings affect weight loss or metabolic function?

Spreading protein intake throughout the day may offer benefits beyond simply meeting daily needs. Gidwani explains that while total daily protein intake remains the most important factor, distributing protein more evenly across meals can better support muscle protein synthesis, which plays a key role in preserving lean mass during weight loss.

Rather than consuming most protein at dinner, aiming for a meaningful source at each meal may help the body maintain muscle more effectively over time. Gidwani notes that this approach can also improve satiety and make it easier to meet protein goals, especially for individuals with reduced appetites, such as those on GLP-1 medications. In practice, this might look like incorporating protein into breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with additional protein-rich snacks or shakes as needed.

Why Trust Good Housekeeping?

Valerie Agyeman, RDN, CDN is a registered dietitian specializing in women’s health with over 10 years of experience in clinical nutrition, corporate wellness, and nutrition communications. She contributes to food and supplement testing at the Good Housekeeping Institute Nutrition and Fitness Lab and has covered topics including gut health, vitamin D, and skin health.

Stefani Sassos, M.S., R.D.N., NASM-CPT is the director of the Good Housekeeping Institute Nutrition Lab where she oversees all nutrition-related content, product testing, and evaluation. She runs and oversees supplement testing and analysis for Good Housekeeping and has covered topics including multivitamins, vitamin D, and joint supplements.

For this piece, we consulted additional health and nutrition experts to provide trusted, practical guidance:

Pooja Gidwani, M.D., MBA, is a double-board-certified physician in Internal Medicine and Obesity Medicine who focuses on longevity, metabolic health, and high-performance care. She works closely with clients to optimize body composition, preserve muscle, and support long-term health through personalized, evidence-based strategies.

Umo Callins, RDN, CSSD, a certified personal trainer, has over 15 years of experience in sports nutrition, weight management, and medical nutrition therapy. She helps clients optimize health and performance through personalized nutrition, lifestyle strategies, and practical guidance for sustainable habits.

Lorraine Kearney, RDN, CDN, is a registered dietitian with two degrees in Food and Nutrition Science and a minor in Psychology. Her expertise focuses on female health, PCOS, thyroid disease, and autoimmune conditions, with a special emphasis on using individualized nutrition and lifestyle strategies to support metabolic health, hormone balance, and sustainable weight management.

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