Are you looking for a natural and effective way to lose weight? Look no further than protein!
That might sound odd, especially because most people think protein is for bulking up, not for slimming down. But that isn’t necessarily true…
Not only is protein essential for building and repairing muscle tissue, but it can also aid in weight loss.
Read on to learn about the benefits of eating protein for weight loss, including some tips on how to incorporate high-protein meals into your diet.
What is Protein?
Protein is a nutrient that is essential to a healthy diet. It is made up of amino acids, which help build and repair tissues, muscles, and bones. Proteins also help transport molecules, regulate hormones, and support the immune system, making them a vital ingredient for many of your body’s core systems.
Since your body can’t store protein as it can with fat or carbohydrates, you need to eat enough of it on a daily basis to stay healthy.
Why is Protein Good for Weight Loss?
Protein is one of the most filling macronutrients, meaning it can help keep you feeling full and satisfied for longer periods of time.
That means, by eating more protein, you can eat smaller portions, and less often. This makes protein a great way to reduce your overall calorie intake which will help you lose weight - and avoid getting hangry!
Additionally, protein requires more energy to digest than carbohydrates or fats, which can boost your metabolism and increase how many calories you burn.
How Much Protein Do You Need for Weight Loss?
The amount of protein you need for weight loss depends on several factors, including your:
- Age
- Weight
- Physical activity level
- Any dietary or medical conditions you may have
However, a good rule of thumb is to aim for at least 0.8 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight. For example, a person who weighs 68 kilograms (150 pounds) should aim for approximately 55 grams of protein per day.
What are the Best High Protein Foods for Weight Loss?
You’ll find not all high-protein foods are created equal when it comes to weight loss. Some are high in saturated fat and calories, while others are lean and nutrient-dense. Here are some of the best protein sources to incorporate into your weight-loss diet.
1. Lean Meats
Lean meats like chicken, turkey and fish are excellent sources of protein that are also low in saturated fat. This makes them filling, but not fattening!
They're also versatile and can be prepared in a variety of ways.
2. Plant-Based Proteins
Plant-based proteins such as beans, lentils, and tofu are great options for those following a vegetarian or vegan diet. They're also high in fibre and can help keep you feeling full.
3. Eggs
Eggs are a nutrient-dense, high-protein food that can be prepared quickly and easily, whether you like them hard-boiled or sunny side up!
4 Easy Tips for Incorporating More Protein into Your Diet
Now that you know the benefits of protein for weight loss and the best protein sources to choose from, here are some tips on how to incorporate more protein into your diet:
- Start your day with a protein-packed breakfast, such as eggs or Greek yoghurt
- Snack on protein-rich foods such as nuts and seeds
- Add a serving of lean protein to each of your meals, such as chicken breast or tofu
- Swap out refined carbs for protein-rich alternatives, such as quinoa or lentil pasta
Just by making these four changes, your diet will become cleaner, and you’ll feel the urge to eat excessively will be much less present.
How Does Eating Protein for Weight Loss Benefit Your Physique?
Many people make a crucial mistake when they start their weight loss journey.
Think about whether this sounds like you.
You’ve been indulging in too much takeaway lately, and you’ve gained some weight. So you decide to embark on a new year’s resolution diet. Only eating salads and fasting, whatever it takes to shed those kilos!
The problem is, starving yourself isn’t sustainable, and it will also change your physique in ways you may not like. By stripping out as many calories as possible, your body will lose muscle mass as well as fat. While losing mass may not bother you in the short term, it’s easier to preserve it than try to regain it in the future.
By combining high-protein meals with some strength exercises, you can effectively lose weight while maintaining muscle mass.
Have You Considered Delicious Ready Made Meals?
If you’re looking for a convenient and delicious way to eat protein for weight loss, we’ve got the perfect solution.
At Activate Foods, our range of fresh, precooked meals cater to all sorts of dietary conditions, like gluten-free. All our meals have their ingredients clearly outlined on the packaging, including their protein and saturated fat content. This makes controlling your intake a breeze!
Simply visit our website to learn more about our fantastic range, and to make managing your consumption easy and delicious!
To begin shopping, register at Activate Foods today.
