Protein Directory
Protein is an essential nutrient that promotes growth, strength, energy, weight loss, and more. Common sources of protein include poultry, eggs, beans, beef, milk, cheese, soy, and more. Some people enjoy protein bars or shakes. High-protein diets are popular, though not always healthy. Follow the links below to find WebMD's comprehensive coverage about protein sources, protein foods and diets, and much more.
Medical Reference
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How The Protein Power Diet Works
WebMD explains how the Protein Power diet causes your body to lose weight.
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Healthy Protein for Weight Loss
Protein can help you lose weight and keep your belly full. But it's important to eat the right kind. Find out from the experts at WebMD which proteins are healthiest.
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High-Protein Diet for Weight Loss
Learn easy ways to pump up the protein in your diet while losing weight.
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Protein Shakes
WebMD explains the health benefits of protein shakes and who may want to use them.
Features
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Protein Powder: What You Should Know
Should you add a protein shake to your diet? Get the facts on whey, soy, and other protein powders.
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Will Eating More Protein Help Your Body Gain Muscle Faster?
Seems like everyone at the gym is doing it: filling up on protein to bulk up those biceps. But it's a misconception. Eating extra protein actually doesn't do much toward boosting your muscle mass and strength.
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The Benefits of Protein
Beef up your knowledge of protein and good dietary sources.
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Beans: Protein-Rich Superfoods
High in fiber and antioxidants, beans aren't just good for the waistline, they may aid in disease prevention, too. Find out why beans are so nutritious. Then try our recipe for Tuscan Vegetable Soup.
Video
Slideshows & Images
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High-Protein Diets -- Do They Really Work?
Combine speedy weight loss with the satisfaction of feeling full, and it’s easy to understand why high-protein diets are popular. But is there a downside?
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Get the Protein You Need
Get protein to stay strong! See high-protein foods that can be part of a well-rounded, healthy diet.
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7 Signs You're Not Getting Enough Protein
Are you getting enough protein in your diet? Learn to spot the warning signs of protein deficiency, who is the most at risk, and when you need more protein.
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Say Cheese
Yes, you can eat cheese! It's been a yummy treat for thousands of years. Learn about the different types, find out how they're made, and get tips on how to serve them.
Quizzes
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Myths and Facts About Protein
Take this quiz about good sources of protein, how much you need, who needs more, and why protein is so important.
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Test Your Nutrition IQ
Take this quiz to find out how much you know about dietary guidelines.
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Test Your IQ on Protein and Building Muscle
Answer this question to find out more about eating protein and building muscle.
Expert Commentary
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Top 10 Protein Foods
No doubt about it, protein is good for you -- and can even help you shed those unwanted pounds. But (and you knew there was a "but," right?), it's important to eat the right amount and the right kind of protein to get the lifelong weight-loss results you want.
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Where's the Beef? Where's the Health Benefit?
Protein for health and weight loss
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Nutty About Peanut Butter
Shopping, eating, and cooking tips for peanut butter, an all-American favorite.
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The Meat Effect: Protein, Carbs, and Your Diet
Nutritional information for dieters on proteins and carbohydrates.