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Protein and Weight Loss: Is there a Link?
This decade, protein took center stage when it comes to dieting. With the
entry of protein diets, carbohydrates and good fats almost became a thing of the
past. Protein diet is the weight loss program making raves today. But is there
really a link between protein and weight loss?To clear the issue, here are the truths behind protein and weight loss:
1. Protein helps you curb your appetite.
Studies show that protein helps you lose body weight by decrease your fondness
for food. Eating more than enough protein in your diet would satiate your hunger
more than necessary. And because you feel full you won't crave for any more food
in the next several hours. The different
protein diets and the Atkins diet
indicate protein intake to be more than twice as much of what the American
Dietetic Association prescribes.
2. Protein boosts metabolism and burns more fat.
In a certain study, two groups of people are given different levels of protein
in their meals. One group was given one gram for every pound of their body
weight. The other group was given protein as stated in their respective
Recommended Daily Allowance (RDA). After the test period, it was found out that
the group who consumed more protein was able to burn more fats. Experts
attribute this to the thermic effect of proteins.
3. Protein increases muscle mass.
This is the main reason why protein is the favorite nutrient of body builders.
But it can help dieters a lot as well. With the right amount protein in the
body, muscles fibers are increased and fat is burned considerably. This is
because protein delivers the energy that the body needs to perform exercises and
other physical activities. Without protein, the body becomes sluggish and the
person feels tired more often. If you don't move much, fats won't get burned.
And they would accumulate in your body to eventually become toxins. This fact
showing the link between protein and weight loss is simply hard to ignore.
4. Protein triggers the functions of a natural
weight loss hormone.
A certain study conducted by British researchers indicates that a certain
hormone produced by the stomach is triggered with enough protein in the body.
This is the most promising link between protein and weight loss just yet. The
hormone, which is called the PYY hormone, is said to be the cure for obesity.
These are the facts behind protein and weight loss programs. Protein is a
good nutrient for the body. However, it is best to consult with a professional
health expert before devising a protein diet of your own.
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