06/01/2026
If you’re trying to build muscle, tone up, and stay lean… protein quality matters just as much as quantity.
Some popular “protein options” are either too low in actual usable protein, loaded with junk, or they spike your calories without helping you recover or rebuild.
Let’s break it down 👇🏽
🚫 Deli meats – Full of sodium, nitrates, and preservatives. They technically have protein, but they’re also inflammatory and don’t help with muscle repair long-term.
�✅ I batch cook real protein like grilled chicken thighs, shrimp, or salmon instead.
🚫 Flavored high-protein yogurts – Most are packed with sugar and artificial flavors that can mess with blood sugar and gut health.
�✅ I use plain Greek yogurt and add my own protein (like collagen peptides or a scoop of whey) + berries or cinnamon.
🚫 Canned soups with “meat” – Tiny bits of low-quality meat that barely count toward your muscle goals.
�✅ I make homemade soups with shredded chicken, bone broth, and lentils or quinoa for fiber.
🚫 Protein bars – Most are ultra-processed, low in quality protein, and high in sugar alcohols or fillers that bloat you.
�✅ If I need something quick, I’ll go for a protein shake or real food (boiled eggs, turkey sticks, or leftovers).
🚫 Fast food chicken sandwiches – It might seem high-protein, but most of it is fried breading and processed oil.
�✅ If I’m on the go, I’ll grab a burger, double the meat skip the bun.
🚫 Cheese as a protein – It has protein, but not enough for the calories. It’s mostly fat and doesn’t stimulate muscle growth like lean meat or eggs.
�✅ I know so many of you love cheese. I will only eat the occasional goats milk gouda but not for the protein. Just because I like it.
🚫 Fake vegan meats – Highly processed and usually low in leucine (which is critical for muscle growth).
�✅ These used to be my go to until I started reading the label. If I were to be plant-based again, I stick with whole foods like a high protein tofu, lentils, or tempeh. (Tempeh is gross though btw)
Want more help with what to eat that has protein?
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2nd comment VEGAS and I’ll send you 7 complete days of meal planning done for you.