Friday, January 2, 2009

How Quality Protein Can Help You to Lose Weight

By Ricardo d Argence

Protein is one of the nutrients that is used in quite large quantities in the body. It is called a macronutrient and provides about 4 calories a gram to the body for its health. It is vital for the formation of the body's building blocks. Among the many jobs it does is the growth and upkeep of the muscles, skin, immune system and eyes, just to mention a few. Protein also helps in the body making enzymes and in maintaining the health of the blood.

Protein is not like some other nutrients. It is not produced in our body, so it is important that we consume an adequate amount of protein every day.

Any hope of building and maintaining strong muscles hinges upon sufficient protein in the diet. The more muscle mass you produce the more effectively your body burns fat also. Considering that your heart is a muscle, it can easily be negatively affected by a low or no protein diet.

If you eat protein in every meal is a way to prevent cravings for certain foods you should not have. That's because it will leave you more satisfied. Protein takes more energy to digest than other nutrients. During the process of protein digestion, body temperature is raised by a few degrees.

When your body's temperature has increased, even in small amounts, what you get is a thermogenic effect that helps the body to burn calories in a more efficient way. This can help you in your quest to lose weight. Those types of food that add the weight can be avoided eating the correct amount of protein. That will also keep you from eating in between meals.

Quality protein is lean protein with low fat content. Certain proteins are high in fat and should only be consumed in moderation.

Possible sources of this protein are:

Skinless chicken breasts are much lower in fat than the dark meat on chicken. The skin with its high fat content should never be consumed. Tuna, Salmon, in fact all kinds of fish are great sources for lean protein as long as they are grilled, broiled, or baked. Avoid heavy breaded fried fish. Skinless turkey breasts are basically similar to the chicken mentioned here.

You should also try with: egg whites are much lower in fat than the yolks. Skim milk and great source of protein and dairy that can be consumed daily. Whey protein powder is a great supplement to use to make sure you are getting enough protein. Tuna, Salmon, in fact all kinds of fish are great sources for lean protein as long as they are grilled, broiled, or baked. - 16492

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