Protein Power – why is it so important in weight loss?
Not too long ago the main group of people concerned with protein intake were bodybuilders. Over the last decade or so, protein has been talked about much more amongst the general population, and I often get asked by prospective female clients whether they need protein powder in their diet.
There is a lot to say on this topic – why it is important, what we need to consider and avoid – and to do it justice and make it more digestible (pun intended!) this will be part one in a protein series.
So why is protein so important in the realm of weight loss? There are 3 main reasons.
1.Satiety
Protein-rich foods are important to include in each meal to help us feel satisfied.
How? As protein is digested, it triggers the release of a hormone called cholecystokinin (CCK) that promoted that feeling of satiety. This is one of the reasons why the Atkins weight loss diet was popular…but protein can healthily coexist on your plate along with carbohydrates and fats!
2.TEF (Thermic Effect of Food)
Protein has a higher thermic effect compared to carbohydrates and fats, meaning your body burns more energy to digest and metabolize protein-rich foods. This means that incorporating protein-rich foods into each meal can help to give your metabolism a slight boost and support your weight loss efforts.
3.Muscle Building and Preservation
Protein provides the building blocks to build muscle. Increasing the proportion of muscle in the body isn’t just about building strength, it also increases our resting metabolic rate. Meaning that even when you aren’t working out, you are burning more energy and supporting fat loss.
This becomes even more important for us as we get older. Not only can it become harder to build muscle, but we also start to lose muscle. According to the National Institute of Health, we lose 3-8% of muscle mass each decade after the age of 30! This rate increases after the age of 60. This is also why strength training becomes even more important too.
At You By Anthea, we believe in empowering individuals to make informed food and lifestyle choices. Understanding the reasons behind specific recommendations is an essential aspect of this philosophy.
Stay tuned for the upcoming parts of this protein series, where we will share healthy protein-rich foods and meal choices, dispel common misconceptions, and provide valuable insights to enhance your weight loss journey.
If you're ready for personalized coaching to achieve your health goals, don't hesitate to reach out and schedule a free, no-obligation discovery call.