how much protein in 100 gm gram - #39294
I am kinda freaking out about my diet lately. I started working out more seriously and wanna make sure I’m getting enough nutrition, esp. protein. I've been tracking what I eat and was trying to figure out how much protein in 100 gm gram of different foods, but I get confused. Like, sometimes I read that chicken has a lot, but then I find other sources saying other things are better, and I can't keep track. I tried eating more lentils, beans, and quinoa thinking that those were good options but when I look at the labels, I'm not sure if they all actually pack enough protein. I just recently made a huge batch of chickpea curry since I heard chickpeas are a good source too, but now I'm questioning if I'm doing it right. Also, when it comes to sources like nuts, I read they're healthy but a bit high in calories too, so should I be careful with portion sizes? Should I be looking for more animal proteins or is plant-based protein enough? Really trying to get clarity on how much protein in 100 gm gram of foods like these makes a difference, ya know? Any advice or tips from you awesome ayurvedic docs would be super appreciated! Just need to feel secure about this whole protein thing!
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Doctors' responses
Chickpeas are actually a good source of protein. In 100 grams of cooked chickpeas (roughly half a cup), you can expect to find around 7.5 grams of protein. For lentils, another staple in many diets, 100 grams of cooked lentils contain about 9 grams of protein. Quinoa offers about 4 grams of protein for the same weight. These plant-based options provide not only protein but also fiber, vitamins, and minerals which support holistic nutrition according to Ayurvedic practices.
Regarding nuts, they indeed provide good protein. For example, almonds have about 21 grams of protein per 100 grams. However, as you noted, they are high in calories, so portion control might be important if you’re watching your caloric intake. But they also offer good fats and other nutritional benefits, so they should not be excluded altogether unless there’s a specific reason to avoid high-calorie intake.
Chicken, as an animal protein source, typically contains around 25-30 grams of protein per 100 grams, which is significantly higher than the plant-based options. From an Ayurvedic perspective, though, simply loading up on proteins is not the holistic approach. It’s about balance – balancing your doshas (biological energies) and ensuring your agni (digestive fire) can digest what you consume.
Plant-based proteins can certainly provide the necessary protein if they are well-chosen and balanced throughout your meals. In Ayurveda, the idea is spreading your protein intake throughout the day to maintain balanced energy levels and support digestion. Eating a mix of plant sources can ensure you get a variety of amino acids, the ‘building blocks’ of proteins.
Now talking about your exercise regimen, add some spices like ginger, cumin, and black pepper to improve digestion while you’re bulking up your diet. Consider incorporating foods tailored to your dosha type. If you want animal proteins but find them difficult to digest, small amounts with ginger or cumin can help you absorb more efficiently.
Ultimately, if you maintain a varied diet and pay attention to how you feel with different foods, you’ll build an intuitive sense of what balance is right for you. It’s important to ensure your meals satisfy your body’s energy and nutritional requirements without stressing your digestive fire. If you’re ever unsure or feel persistent digestive discomfort, consulting with a professional who can tailor a plan to your individual constitution and needs is worthwhile.

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