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Is paneer the best vegetarian protein option? Nutrition coach shares facts that will shock you

Updated on: Nov 30, 2024, 14:46:56 IST
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As per a nutrition coach's clip, paneer might not be a great source of protein.
As per a nutrition coach's clip, paneer might not be a great source of protein.

A nutrition coach advised against relying solely on paneer for protein in an Instagram video. Check out the facts he shared about paneer. 

Paneer is often considered a vegetarian protein substitute for chicken, eggs, etc. It is also a great source of calcium. But is eating paneer daily a healthy practice, and is it the best vegetarian protein option? Certified fitness and nutrition coach Raj Ganpath does not believe so. In an Instagram video, Raj talked in detail about the nutrient components of paneer, and his revelations may surprise you.

(Also Read | Virat Kohli, Suniel Shetty, Neeraj Chopra's diets include high-protein meals; fitness coach explains why protein matters)

‘Paneer is mostly fat’

In a video titled ‘Is paneer really the best vegetarian protein option?’, Raj Ganpath talked about how paneer has more fat content than protein. He added that if paneer is your go-to protein option while ordering in or eating out, then they should reconsider eating it. He explained, “Paneer is just like any other cheese. That means it contains a little bit of protein, yes, but it is mostly fat. In fact, only about 25% of calories in paneer are from protein. The rest of it is from fat.”

He added, “So, if you're thinking 'Cheese, oh my god, it is gonna make fat. But paneer it contains protein; it'll make me strong'; you're mistaken.”

The fitness coach next explained the macronutrient profile of paneer. He said that the macronutrients in paneer tikka or grilled paneer are quite similar to a fried chicken breast. “In fact, the fried chicken breast contains more protein and less calories than fresh paneer,” he added. Raj further explained that he wanted to highlight these facts so that people know that though paneer is a great food option, they shouldn't overdo its consumption.

The nutrition coach even suggested a few alternatives to paneer. “Look for other options and mix it up. Tofu and tempeh are foods that contain the same amount of protein but at a much lower calorie load. And if your goal is weight loss, you can consider low-fat paneer options also. In the long term, be it fitness or weight loss, moderation is key. And so, anything in moderation, everything in moderation,” he elaborated.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.

  • Krishna Pallavi Priya
    ABOUT THE AUTHOR
    Krishna Pallavi Priya

    Krishna Priya Pallavi is a journalist with over 9 years of experience, covering health, fashion, pop culture, travel, wellness, entertainment, festivals, mental health, art, decor, fitness, and sex and relationships. She is an alumna of the Indian Institute of Mass Communication (IIMC), Dhenkanal, and holds an undergraduate degree in Journalism and Mass Communication from Guru Gobind Singh Indraprastha University, Delhi. Her strong academic foundation informs her analytical and detail-oriented approach to storytelling, helping her uncover stories where none seem to exist. Before joining Hindustan Times, Pallavi worked with some of India’s leading media organisations. She spent close to three years at India Today, where she honed her newsroom skills and developed a sharp editorial sensibility. She also worked for over a year and a half at Vagabomb, ScoopWhoop’s feminist digital platform, where she explored stories through a gender-sensitive, socially aware lens. Pallavi has a deep interest in global fashion trends and international fashion seasons, and enjoys interviewing celebrities and tracking pop culture movements—interests that frequently translate into engaging, reader-friendly stories. Alongside lifestyle and entertainment, she has a keen eye for impactful health and wellness journalism, regularly interacting with doctors, designers, and digital content creators to bring nuance and credibility to her work. Born and raised in Haryana, Pallavi remains deeply connected to her ancestral roots in Odisha. Her ability to spot fresh angles brings curiosity and depth to stories she pursues. When not chasing deadlines, she enjoys spending time with her dog, planning her next vacation, reading, running new trails, and discovering new destinations.Read More

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