- With all the fad diets and nutritional information in the media it’s hard to know what nutritional plan works best. Several studies have shown that people who follow a high protein diet with low levels of fat and cholesterol successfully lose weight. More importantly, they lose the weight and they are able to keep it off because the diet allows you to eat normal everyday foods
- Proteins are the building blocks of the human body. Proteins are composed of chains of twenty different kinds of amino acids. Within the human body protein makes up enzymes, antibodies, hormones, hair, bone, nail, teeth, hemoglobin and skin
- When fat and cholesterol levels are low combined with high levels of protein the body naturally becomes a calorie and fat burning machine. Research is now showing a high protein diet with a low fat level is just as effective as the high fat high protein diets out there
Protein is indispensable for the growth of every type of cell in our body. It is required for every systematic function in the human body. From helping heal wounds properly to proper immune system function protein plays a critical role in all of it. As far as nutrition and health are concerned protein intake as part of a healthy diet can be your biggest asset. High protein diets are all the rage as Atkins and South Beach have put protein on the map. High protein diets were once relegated to the fringe sect of bodybuilders who digest copious amounts of protein for the sake of bulging muscles. Some diets like Atkins do not closely regulate fat and cholesterol levels and people can chomp away at bunless burgers smothered in cheese with a layer of bacon on the top. Atkins does show results but the long term health of people who eat such high levels of fat and cholesterol may be compromised.
Studies are now showing that high protein low fat and cholesterol diets are effective as well and may lead to better overall health and disease prevention. Although not thoroughly researched some experts believe that the longevity of a high protein diet combined with low levels of fat and cholesterol may be easier for people to stick with because of the variety of foods you can eat.
The foundation of success to protein diets is choosing a variety of lean protein sources. In other words, nix the cheese, bacon and fatty red meat. Sources such as fish, chicken, legumes, low fat dairy and soy will supply you with all the protein your body needs. High protein doesn’t have to mean high fat. Protein is only one piece of the picture. Choosing the right kind of carbohydrates is important for sustained energy and balanced insulin levels. “Good” carbs come in the form of fruit, vegetables, potatoes, yams, oats and brown rice. These carbohydrates are known as complex carbs and give a sustained lasting energy release rather than a quick sugar high followed by a hard crash. Eating enough fiber is also effective at reducing the insulin impact carbs have and it improves protein absorption.
Eating five to six times per day your body will have constant energy and a higher metabolism. Make sure each meal has a serving of protein, a complex carbohydrate and an eight ounce glass of water. Following this plan you’ll be able to get lean and maintain a healthy heart by skipping out all the fat and cholesterol.
