Best Protein-Rich Foods for Seniors

Last in our installment of high-protein foods is a breakfast staple, eggs. A single, large, hard-boiled egg contains 78 calories and packs six grams of protein, proving once again that sometimes the best things come in small packages. Inexpensive and easy-to-prepare, eggs yield a number of quality health benefits that go beyond just their high protein content.

Per Healthline, eggs are rich sources of selenium, vitamin D, B6, B12 and several minerals like zinc, iron and copper. Egg yolks are also rich in nutrients as well as vitamins A, D, E and K.

If calorie intake is a concern, then straining out the yolk and consuming egg whites is a great option. The yolks contain more calories (55, raw) than egg whites (17, raw). Additionally, egg whites contain significantly less fat than the yolk as the yolk makes up most of the egg's fat content.

Some brands of egg even contain omega-3 fatty acids. But, this entirely depends on what the chickens have been fed, so make sure you check the box first. Overall, eggs are a 'complete' source of protein that contain all nine essential amino acids and many other significant health benefits.

Other High-Protein Options for Seniors

While lean meats, fish, dairy and eggs are all great sources of protein, there are plenty of other plant-based, vegan-friendly options out there as well. Protein is often a concern when it comes to vegetarian diets, but a well-planned vegetarian diet provides you sufficient amounts of all the nutrients you need, including protein!

All of these foods contain nutrients seniors need most, and for those of you looking for a plant-based, protein-packed alternative to meat, here are just some of our favorites:

Tofu and Edamame