Want To Lose Weight? Eat Your Protein!
November 29, 2007 by Claire
Filed under Women's Health
So many people think that a diet is about simply reducing calories and eating less fat. They fail to consider a vital part of the equation – protein.
Lean protein really is a nutritional superstar. It fills you up so you eat less, and stimulates your body to burn more calories and fat than it would if you ate mostly carbs or fat. The question is, what foods do you eat to get that protein?
All meat is made up of protein and fat. Lean meat is a great source of protein without the added fat. Other sources include yogurt, cheese or milk, nuts, eggs, and beans.
I don’t eat much meat – so I really struggle to get my protein in. I like cheese, but I refuse to eat the fat-free stuff, so I can’t have much of it or the calories add up quickly. One thing that’s been a lifesaver for me – New-Whey liquid protein. It comes in 3-ounce vials in flavors like Blue Raspberry, Fruit Punch and Grape, has no sugar or fat, and contains either 25 or 42 grams of protein.
I found these vials at my local Vitamin Shoppe, and they also carry them at GNC. I’ve found that it’s really easy to drink a vial before work when I don’t have much time and am not really hungry for breakfast.
Whatever you choose, it’s so important to get that protein in. For women, the RDA is 46 grams, but I’ve had 60-70 a day and felt just fine.
Claire
(image from Nosheteria.com)
Claire-
An excellent point. I find that if I slack off on getting enough protein I turn to other things I shouldn’t be eating…and that’s just bad.
And as an alternative to always having to cook, I buy the precooked chicken and keep it in my fridge. In fact, I grabbed a handful this morning for breakfast…a much better choice than a bagel or muffin.
That’s a great idea Lisa. I wish I could get myself to eat “real” food in the morning – but I’m always slightly queasy
I’m going to try those liquid protein supplements. I know its important to eat protein in the morning to keep you full, which helps with not over eating later in the day. Sometimes just not hungry or have any time in the am. I like getting ahold of foods that I can grab and run out the door! Thanks