Heart healthy proteins

Protein is an essential macronutrient that provides you with energy, helps your body to build muscles, repair cells plus a host of metabolic activities. Heart-healthy proteins are those that contain less saturated fat. Saturated fats can raise your cholesterol levels and increase the risk of heart disease.

Here are some great protein sources that are healthy for your heart:

• Tofu and tempeh - these soy-based products are complete proteins, meaning they contain all of the essential amino acids that your body needs to function optimally.
• Seafood - fish is high in protein and unsaturated fatty acids that are beneficial for your heart health, but low in saturated fats that can be detrimental to your cardiovascular health.
• Chicken and turkey - poultry is a great alternative to red meat if you're a meat lover. It's low in saturated fat (as long as you remove the skin before eating) but still very high in protein.
• Greek yogurt - for a meat-free source of protein, Greek yogurt has to take first place. It's packed full of healthy protein and loaded with micronutrients that support your heart.
• Beans and legumes - although lower in protein than the above options, beans and legumes are still an ideal source of heart-healthy proteins, especially if you are following a plant-based diet. They're high in complex carbohydrates and micronutrients, too.