Friday, January 2, 2009

Quality Protein Can Help You in Your Weight Loss Process

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 manufactured by the human body and so it is important to ensure that the daily diet contains sufficient quantities of it.

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.

This small increase in temperature results in a thermogenic effect that helps the body to more efficiently burn fat calories. This can help you in your quest to lose weight. In addition, by eating the proper amount of protein, it will be easier to refrain from snacking between meals and easier to avoid unhealthy foods that will make you gain weight.

Protein can be used as a replacement for sweets as it is often the case that this is what your body is craving, rather than sweets.

Possible sources of this protein are:

Tuna, Salmon, in fact all kinds of fish are great sources for lean protein as long as they are grilled, broiled, or baked. Low-fat cottage cheese is not great protein but also a source of dairy for your daily needs. Lean red meat consumed in moderation is a great source of quality protein. It also is great for the health of your blood.

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. - 15437

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