6 high protein vegetarian meals and snacks, nutritionist approved

Yogurt bark, bean burgers, and egg muffins are all good vegetarian sources of protein.Faye Townsend

• Eating enough protein is important if you want to build muscle or lose fat, as well as for overall health.
• Getting a decent amount of protein can be hard if you don't eat meat, but there are still plenty of protein-rich options.

Protein is one of three macronutrients, alongside carbs and fat, that make up all our foods. Eating protein is an important part of a balanced diet and helps maintain general good health.

If you want to lose fat and/or build muscle, consuming enough protein is crucial — the nutrient supports muscle repair after exercise, helps your body hold on to muscle while dropping fat, and keeps you satiated.

How much protein you need per day varies based on age, sex, weight and activity level. Generally, protein should make up 10% to 35% of your daily diet, Elizabeth Beil, a registered dietitian nutritionist previously told Insider.

Getting a decent amount of protein can be hard if you don't eat meat, but there are still plenty of protein-rich vegetarian options. For example, one egg has six grams of protein, compared to half a cup of cooked lentils, which has eight grams of protein.

Registered sports nutritionist Faye Townsend shared some of her favorite vegetarian meals and snacks that pack a protein punch with Insider, from egg muffins to flapjacks.