'I’m a nutritionist and this is the most protein-packed fruit in the world'

A food expert has described passion fruit as the most protein-packed fruit in the world - with almost the same amount as in an egg. Protein is an excellent thing to have plenty of in a diet because it helps with body repairs, building muscle and also with weight loss because it makes people fell fuller for longer and less likely to snack.

Although most people think that proteins mainly come from animal-based foods, there are some fruits that contain almost the same amount of protein. Passion fruit is the richest in protein. This fruit contains about 5 grams of protein per 200-gram piece, slightly less than what can be found in a medium-sized egg, which has about six grams of this valuable macronutrient.

Jessica Cording, nutritionist, dietitian and health advisor, said: “It is a very nutrient-dense fruit and provides countless health benefits. Eating it provides fibre, carbohydrates, vitamin C, vitamin A, and some potassium. It really has a lot to offer the body.”

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Passion fruit dominates this ranking in terms of the highest amount of protein, but there are other protein-rich fruits. Here are the best:

• Avocado: 4.5 grams of protein per cup

• Guava: more than 4 grams of protein per cup

• Grapefruit: almost 3 grams of protein per cup

• How much passion fruit to eat per day?

Your body needs protein to stay healthy and work the way it should. More than 10,000 types are found in everything from your organs to your muscles and tissues to your bones, skin, and hair.

Protein is also a critical part of the processes that fuel your energy and carry oxygen throughout your body in your blood. It also helps make antibodies that fight off infections and illnesses and helps keep cells healthy and create new ones. Plus, protein helps you feel full, so it’s often part of a healthy weight-loss plan.