Friday, January 2, 2009

Eating to Lose Body Fat, How Quality Protein Can Help You

By Ricardo d Argence

Protein is a key factor in the body where it is used in very large quantities. 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. The body uses dietary protein to do many things including growing and maintaining the skin, immune system, eyes and muscles. It's also useful for the body to make enzymes and maintain the health of the blood.

Unlike some other nutrients, our bodies do not produce any protein so it is vital that we take in enough protein on a daily basis.

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.

Some sorces of quality 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. - 16650

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