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No-Sugar, High-Protein Diet Plan: Gain Muscle Fast

Zero sugar, high protein is the mantra here, eliminating all added sugars and focusing on foods naturally rich in protein. This diet enhances muscle recovery and growth while preventing sugar spikes, suitable for those who are looking to lean down and tone up without the sweet stuff.

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Diet plan grocery list

  • Chicken breast
  • Turkey
  • Salmon
  • Tuna
  • Eggs
  • Greek yogurt
  • Cottage cheese
  • Skim milk
  • Beef steak
  • Pork chops
  • Tempeh

  • Tofu
  • Edamame
  • Lentils
  • Black beans
  • Chickpeas
  • Almonds
  • Walnuts
  • Chia seeds
  • Hemp seeds
  • Flax seeds
  • Whey protein powder

  • Casein protein powder
  • Pea protein powder
  • Quinoa
  • Oats
  • Broccoli
  • Spinach
  • Brussels sprouts
  • Asparagus
  • Avocado
  • Peanut butter
  • Almond butter

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Article Reviewed
• Written by our editorial team.
• Published on April 29, 2024.
• Updated on August 13, 2024.

Diet plan overview

The high-protein diet plan for no sugar cuts out sugary foods entirely, focusing instead on protein-rich foods like lean meats, fish, and eggs. These protein sources help to build and repair tissues without the need for added sugars. Low-glycemic vegetables and healthy fats are also integral to this diet, supporting overall health while avoiding sugar.

This diet is particularly beneficial for those looking to improve body composition and energy levels. By eliminating sugar, you reduce cravings and stabilize blood sugar, which is crucial for sustained health and well-being.

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Foods to eat

  • Lean Meats: Chicken breast, turkey, and lean cuts of beef or pork.
  • Fish: Tuna, salmon, and other fatty fish which are naturally sugar-free and high in protein.
  • Eggs: A versatile source of protein that can be cooked in various ways without adding sugar.
  • Dairy: Greek yogurt and cottage cheese, ensuring they are unsweetened and full-fat.
  • Legumes: Lentils and black beans, which provide protein without added sugars.
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Eat less means eating fewer calories. This, in turn, means not overeating fat (which is high in calories) or sugars (which have calories but no nutrients), avoiding between-meal snacks, and eating smaller portions.

Marion Nestle, PhD, MPH

Foods not to eat

  • Sugary Snacks: Cakes, cookies, candies, and other desserts.
  • Processed Foods: Anything with added sugars or sweeteners, including many types of bread and processed snacks.
  • Flavored Yogurts: Many contain high amounts of added sugars; opt for plain and unsweetened varieties.
  • Sweetened Beverages: Soda, fruit juices, and energy drinks which are high in sugars.
  • Certain Sauces: Barbecue sauce, ketchup, and other condiments that often contain hidden sugars.

Main benefits

The high-protein diet plan for no sugar cuts out sugary foods completely, focusing instead on proteins that help curb cravings and support lean muscle growth. This diet is excellent for improving mental clarity and reducing fatigue. It's particularly beneficial for those looking to refine their diet without the energy crashes associated with sugar.

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📊 Nearly three-quarters of Americans are cutting back on sugar (Source)

How to budget on this diet plan

Stock up on unsweetened dairy products like Greek yogurt and cottage cheese, which are high in protein and free of added sugars, buying larger sizes to reduce cost per serving. Prepare meats and fish using natural herbs and spices instead of sauces with added sugars, which are not only healthier but also more budget-friendly when bought in bulk. Consider purchasing whey or casein protein powders in bulk, which can serve as a base for smoothies or baking, avoiding added sugars.

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7-Day Meal Plan for High-Protein, No-Sugar Diet

Day 1

  • Breakfast: Scrambled eggs with spinach and a side of Greek yogurt
  • Lunch: Grilled chicken breast with steamed broccoli and quinoa
  • Dinner: Beef steak with Brussels sprouts and a side salad of avocado and asparagus
  • Snack: A handful of almonds and walnuts

Day 2

  • Breakfast: Omelette with tofu and asparagus, topped with avocado slices
  • Lunch: Tuna salad with spinach, chia seeds, and a scoop of cottage cheese
  • Dinner: Salmon fillet with roasted Brussels sprouts and lentils
  • Snack: Greek yogurt mixed with flax seeds and peanut butter

Day 3

  • Breakfast: Cottage cheese pancakes with almond butter
  • Lunch: Grilled turkey with mixed green salad (spinach, broccoli) and quinoa
  • Dinner: Pork chops with steamed asparagus and a side of black beans
  • Snack: Whey protein shake with hemp seeds

Day 4

  • Breakfast: Smoothie with spinach, pea protein powder, and almond milk
  • Lunch: Lentil soup with grilled chicken strips and avocado
  • Dinner: Stir-fried tofu with broccoli and walnuts
  • Snack: Edamame and cottage cheese

Day 5

  • Breakfast: Greek yogurt with sliced almonds and chia seeds
  • Lunch: Beef salad with spinach, avocado, and chickpeas
  • Dinner: Baked salmon with asparagus and a quinoa side dish
  • Snack: Casein protein pudding with flax seeds

Day 6

  • Breakfast: Scrambled tofu with broccoli and hemp seeds
  • Lunch: Chicken breast salad with Brussels sprouts and avocado
  • Dinner: Tempeh stir-fry with mixed vegetables (spinach, asparagus) and black beans
  • Snack: A handful of walnuts and a scoop of peanut butter

Day 7

  • Breakfast: Oats with whey protein powder and almond butter
  • Lunch: Turkey wrap using lettuce instead of bread, filled with avocado, chickpeas, and tomato
  • Dinner: Pork chops with lentils and steamed spinach
  • Snack: Greek yogurt with mixed seeds (chia, hemp, flax)

Download the FREE grocery list for this Diet plan

Download the FREE grocery list for this Diet plan

Get grocery list
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⚠️ Keep in mind

As with any dietary change, it is recommended to consult with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian before changing your dietary habits.