Whether you're in it to get lean or to build healthy muscles, the power of proper snacks is undeniable. The experts all tell us to consume six small meals a day. Having a snack is the most simple and fast way to get there.

Why would you crave high-protein snacks? Almost all diets, body building and healthy eating guides move towards more small meals per day rather than the traditional larger meal plans. Causes include maintaining a stable metabolism and avoiding insulin spikes. Both have positive effects on weight loss and muscle building, but that is another story. With the modern busy way of living, nearly all people do not have time to eat these small meals throughout the day.

Protein diets have become one of the most popular diet plan today. The idea behind this is simple, no matter what your goals are, everyone may benefit from a diet rich in protein and high protein foods. Whether your objective is to build muscle mass or lose weight and fat this type of plan is right for you.

The question is, "What are the healthiest, best tasting and leanest sources of protein?" Here's a list of the top 7 protein-rich foods in no specific order.

1.    Chicken Breast – 3.5 oz., 30 grams of protein (Go with the 99% fat-free boneless, skinless variety for the leanest choice.)

2.    Tuna – 6 oz. can, 40 grams of protein

3.    Turkey – About 7 grams of protein per ounce

4.    Salmon – 3.5 oz., 27 grams of protein

5.    Eggs – 1 large, 7 grams of protein

6.    Peanut Butter – 2 Tablespoons, 8 grams of protein

7.    Almonds, Peanuts, Cashews – 1/4 cup, 8grams, 9 grams, 5 grams of protein

Make sure that the meats you consume are lean and organic. These are the healthiest for you. The meats you consume are only as healthy as the animal from which they come. If you consume meats that have been shot up with hormones or corn-feed, you will be getting less than adequate food that may be chemical-laden and fatty. Eating foods with those bad attributes will not do your health any good.

The same applies to eggs. Choose eggs that are high in omega 3s and come from free-ranging chickens. These will supply more nutrients to you when you eat them.

Fish should be wild caught. Farm-raised fish do not offer the same omega 3 fatty acid benefit as wild caught fish.
Avoid nuts that are roasted in hydrogenated oils. The healthiest choice for nuts is raw nuts that have not been adulterated.