Protein burns fat, builds muscle, keeps your fuller longer and continues to be one of the most satisfying food groups you can eat. Oh and did we mention there are some seriously delicious options? And now, new research shows losing weight highly depends on your protein intake and not just from the typical chicken but more veggies. The study published in Nutrition Journal found that plant protein intakes may play a role in preventing obesity. A little known fact is that protein is found in almost all plants. 

But nuts and whole grains are your protein kingdom. Not every plant protein is a complete protein, meaning one that builds muscle and burns fat just as effectively. But not every plant protein is a “complete” protein, meaning one that builds muscle and burns fat just as effectively as meat. Eat eat at least 0.4 grams of total protein per pound of body weight—that’s at least 60 grams a day if you weigh 150, at least 80 grams a day if you weigh 200.

Eggs have often been touted as the ideal protein-delivery system for the last 30 years. Add it to any meal, breakfast, lunch or dinner, and pack a 6-gram protein punch. Protein fuels the muscles, boosts metabolism and keeps hunger at bay. But as versatile as these little round, white delectables, it's hard to eat them every day. The good news is there are a number of surprising superfoods that pack even more protein than eggs. 

9 High-Protein Foods

1. eets or Beet Greens
2. Spinach
3. Brussel Sprouts
4. Kale
5. Broccoli
6. Chia Seeds
7. Chickpea Flour
8. Sun-dried tomatoes
9. Pumpkin seeds