Which of the following is considered one of the best sources of protein to include as part of a heart-healthy lifestyle?

Choice A reason: Beans provide about 15 grams of protein and 7-10 grams of fiber per cup, unlike beef, which has negligible fiber. Fiber supports digestion, blood sugar control, and heart health by lowering cholesterol, making beans a nutritionally advantageous protein source for overall dietary health compared to beef.

Choice B reason: Beans have negligible saturated fat, unlike beef, which contains 5-10 grams per 3-ounce serving, increasing low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol and heart disease risk. This makes higher saturated fat an incorrect advantage, as beans are lower in saturated fat, promoting cardiovascular health.

Choice C reason: Most beans (except soybeans) are incomplete proteins, lacking certain essential amino acids like methionine, unlike beef, a complete protein. This makes beans less advantageous in terms of amino acid profile, requiring complementary foods, so this is not a correct advantage over beef.

Choice D reason: Beans contain no cholesterol, while beef has about 70-80 mg per 3-ounce serving, contributing to heart disease risk. Higher cholesterol is not an advantage of beans, as their cholesterol-free nature supports heart health, making this an incorrect choice for the question.

Choice A reason: Skinless chicken breast is a lean protein, providing about 26 grams per 3-ounce serving with low saturated fat. It supports muscle maintenance without increasing cholesterol levels, making it a healthy choice for frequent consumption, not one to reduce, as it aligns with heart-healthy dietary goals.

Choice B reason: Fried shrimp is high in saturated fats due to frying, elevating low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol and heart disease risk. Despite providing about 20 grams of protein per serving, its preparation makes it less healthy, warranting less frequent consumption to minimize cardiovascular risks in a balanced diet.

Choice C reason: Baked codfish is a lean protein, offering about 20 grams per 3-ounce serving with omega-3 fatty acids that reduce heart disease risk. It is a healthy choice for frequent consumption, supporting muscle maintenance and cardiovascular health, not a protein to reduce in the diet.

Choice D reason: Tofu, a plant-based complete protein, provides about 10 grams per 1/2 cup with low saturated fat. It supports heart health and muscle maintenance, making it a healthy choice for frequent consumption, especially for vegetarians, and not a protein to reduce in a balanced diet.