Rice and grains make excellent low protein meal-builders.
Protein is an essential nutrient, the building block of the body's muscle. However, too much protein can be hard on your kidneys, says Every Diet (everydiet.org). Additionally, certain medical conditions, such as liver or kidney disease, may require a low-protein diet. Fortunately, there are plenty of options for meals low in protein and rich in other essential nutrients vital to your health.
Salads
Salads make an excellent option for those seeking a low-protein meal. According to a study by the University of Washington Center on Human Development and Disability, most vegetables contain only 1 gram of protein per half cup.
A nourishing salad meal idea that will be low in protein and high in vitamins may include fresh lettuce, broccoli, spinach leaves, radishes, mushrooms and your choice of salad dressing. When choosing a salad dressing, check the protein content on the nutrition label--most "clear" salad dressings such as vinaigrette or Italian tend to have no protein at all, while the protein content of thick dressings such as bleu cheese may contain more than you want added to your salad. If you like cheese with your salad, Every Diet suggests using smaller amounts of cheeses with stronger flavor, such as Parmesan or sharp cheddar to keep protein levels low.
Main Courses
Although it may seem difficult to come up with ideas for hearty lunches or dinner dishes that are low in protein, the options are plentiful here too. For instance, if you're reducing your protein intake for health reasons, you don't have to toss out your favorite ham sandwich for lunch--simply use less meat that is more thinly cut, restricting the amount to a single slice. Use hearty, whole-grain bread, and add vegetables such as lettuce, tomatoes and alfalfa sprouts to add some more nutrition to your low-protein sandwich.
For dinner courses, consider meals using pasta or rice, where the majority of the food is low in protein. Spaghetti with marinara sauce, substituting mushrooms for hamburger or sausage, is an excellent and tasty option, as is using eggplant instead of chicken for a delicious eggplant Parmigiana. Stir-fry meals of sauteed vegetables served on a bed of white or brown rice are delicious low-protein meals as well.
Snacks and Desserts
High-protein snacks such as milk or cheeses (foods which typically provide 8 grams of protein per serving, says a study by the University of Washington) can be easily replaced with healthy, low-protein options.
Pretzels, granola bars (without nuts, if possible, as these can be high in protein), and dried as pineapple or banana chips make great mini-meal options to tide you over until lunch or dinner. Fresh fruit such as apples, oranges and plums contain virtually no protein at all and can be enjoyed at any time of day for a healthy boost of energy and nutrition.
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