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Trained athletes often follow a high protein, low carb diet because it’s the best way to maintain a healthy weight, build muscle and keep energy levels steady. But did you know eating high protein, low carb meals is also good for a heart healthy diet?
Following a diet low in carbs not only helps stabilize blood sugar, it may also lower cholesterol levels and reduce inflammation, which are all important for a healthy heart.
Preparing healthy low carb meals with foods like lean meats, leafy greens and whole grains may help lower blood pressure and reduce the buildup of plaque in the arteries. But when you add protein-rich foods to your meals such as fish, beans and tofu, you’re also experiencing the benefits of a low fat diet and burning calories faster.
Here are 12 low carb, high protein recipes to start making this week. Each of these dishes from the Health eCooks’ Test Kitchen can help you feel stronger, healthier and more satisfied!
Full of the delicious flavors of creamy mozzarella cheese, fresh basil and hearty beefsteak tomatoes, these juicy turkey burgers can satisfy a burger craving without the unwanted grease and fat. Packed with 25 grams of protein and a very low carb bun, this healthy meal idea is the best way to enjoy the grilling season this year.
Low in both fat and calories, swordfish is loaded with healthy nutrients, including heart healthy omega-3s. This protein-rich seafood develops a deliciously smoky flavor when grilled, and pairing it with a tangy bell pepper relish makes it a high protein dinner with very few carbs.
Made with tender, grilled flank steak, crisp greens and colorful veggies, this high protein salad has only 11 grams of carbs but it’s loaded with healthy protein and very little fat.
Craving pasta? You can still enjoy this dish on a high protein, low carb diet with this high protein chicken recipe. Thin chicken cutlets are rolled with creamy ricotta and spinach, then baked in a flavorful tomato sauce for a healthy low carb meal that boasts 27 grams of protein.
Salmon is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, making it the perfect high protein food for your heart and your brain. This grilled entree is paired with crisp asparagus for an easy, high protein low carb meal with a whopping 31 grams of protein and 5 grams of carbs.
Need a heart healthy dinner made with simple ingredients? This marinated chicken recipe uses fresh bell peppers, onions and zucchini skewered with chicken for a heart healthy meal that has 30 grams of protein. This low calorie dish is a great dinner idea when you’re following a high protein, low carb diet.
Lettuce wraps are the perfect way to enjoy this favorite Asian dish without the high carb count. Crisp lettuce and seasoned beef make this an easy high protein, low carb meal​ that’s ready to eat in just 15 minutes.
Not only are grilled tuna sticks full of protein, they’re also rich in B12 and selenium, making them a good source of essential nutrients for brain function, heart health and immunity. This high protein, low carb meal uses chunks of tuna steak with roasted bell pepper, onion and yellow squash on skewers to create a low carb meal with a smoky, delicious flavor.
Traditionally high in sodium, fat and calories, this healthy alternative for chicken cacciatore is simmered in a low sodium tomato sauce flavored with onions, peppers and fresh herbs. This tender chicken breast recipe is a high protein indulgence for Italian food lovers.
This lighter, low carb recipe for pork tostadas swaps out traditional fried shells for a lighter, low carb version. Topped with seasoned pork and fresh veggies, this high protein meal has 28 grams of protein per serving.
This hearty chili recipe is made with high protein lean ground beef, fiber-rich butternut squash and bold seasonings. A warm and filling meal, this low carb recipe has only 9 grams of carbs per serving.
This lighter take on shrimp and grits is made with seasoned shrimp and creamy cauliflower rice. Swapping out heavy carbs for this versatile vegetable makes this recipe a high protein, low carb alternative to the traditional Southern dish.
Running on empty? Fuel yourself with one of these high protein, low carb meals that are packed with protein-rich ingredients and none of the unhealthy carbs you’re trying to avoid.
These high protein, low carb recipes are not only good for your heart health, they can also help you feel stronger, more energized, and ready to start the day on a high note!
Here are 5 easy ways to eat more protein on a heart healthy diet.
Try these 30 high protein dinner ideas to keep your heart and body strong.