Thursday, January 1, 2009

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

By Ricardo d Argence

Abundant quantities of protein is required by the body for proper nutrition. 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. Do not be surprised to notice that it helps with many things including, but not limited to, upkeep of muscles, immune system and muscles. Protein is essential to enzyme creation as well as overall healthy blood.

Protein is not like some other nutrients. It is not produced in our body, so it is important that we consume an adequate amount of protein every day.

Muscles require protein in order to maintain their strength and integrity, so a crucial part of muscle building is to have an adequate amount of protein. The more muscle mass you produce the more effectively your body burns fat also. Protein is essential to good cardio health. Without sufficient quantities, problem may arise.

An effective way to control your appetite, including cravings for foods that are not good for you, and to remain satisfied between meals is to consume protein with every meal. Protein takes more energy to digest than other nutrients. The temperature of the body increases slightly as proteins are metabolized.

This small increase in temperature results in a thermogenic effect that helps the body to more efficiently burn fat calories. This can help you in your quest to lose weight. In addition, by eating the proper amount of protein, it will be easier to refrain from snacking between meals and easier to avoid unhealthy foods that will make you gain weight.

Protein can be used as a replacement for sweets as it is often the case that this is what your body is craving, rather than sweets.

Possible sources of this protein are:

Tuna, Salmon, in fact all kinds of fish are great sources for lean protein as long as they are grilled, broiled, or baked. Low-fat cottage cheese is not great protein but also a source of dairy for your daily needs. Lean red meat consumed in moderation is a great source of quality protein. It also is great for the health of your blood.

Another ones 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.

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