What Constitutes A High-Protein Diet?

The ever-increasing number of weight-loss diets can be difficult to sift through. This is especially true when it comes to determining the weight-loss diet that is appropriate for you. It is easier to just ignore them and stick to exercising in the hopes of a successful weight-loss journey.

Yet, research points to the fact that exercise is only as effective as your diet. So, what do you do? Your answer: stick to a high-protein diet. 

A high-protein diet strictly adheres to the consumption of proteins, ensuring that it maintains the largest portion of your diet. According to uk.atkins.com, this means that you should consume more protein than the recommended amount. Men are expected to consume at least 65 grams of protein, while women are expected to consume less by 10 grams.

The entire diet is based on the fact that high-protein intake reduces hunger and cravings. Additionally, protein intake has been found to encourage the body in burning fat, while increasing muscle mass. Hence, it results in low-calorie intake and effective weight-loss. Yet, is protein that important?

What Is Protein and Why We Need It

There are three macronutrients found in the body. They include fats, carbohydrates and protein. Protein is made up of amino acids, which are often to referred to as the building blocks of this particular macronutrient.

Amino acids are imperative for the growth, repair and recovery of muscles, skin and hair. They also act as chemical messengers in the body to ensure hormone stability. Additionally, proteins have been linked to the prevention of diabetes, high-blood pressure and other cardiovascular-related diseases.

That said, what constitutes a high-protein diet? Below are a few high-protein foods that should constitute your diet for effective weight loss.

Black and Lima Beans

Black and Lima beans are extremely inexpensive and a great way to supplement your diet with protein. Other than their affordability, they are versatile. This means that you can cook and prepare them in a variety of ways.

According to medicalnewstoday.com, these type of beans are high in dietary fiber. Dietary fiber increases satiety for longer, causing an individual to eat less. By lowering calorie intake, black and lima beans are a necessary ingredient for weight loss and weight management. 

Salmon

Salmon, though expensive, has the ability to improve one’s health drastically. Salmon is packed with omega-3 fatty acids. Omega- 3 fatty acids contain the alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA).

These acids help alleviate and prevent health problems such as ADHD, depression, Alzheimer's and even Rheumatoid arthritis.

Eggs

According to Kris Gunnars, one large egg contains at least 6 grams of protein. The egg white is said to contain the most protein and are hence, ranked as one of the healthiest food on earth. Other than the minerals and vitamins that they contain, eggs are high in the brain- protecting compounds.

Beef

A nice juicy steak can be a healthy and tasty treat to indulge in. However, ensure that you’re sticking to lean beef and staying away from fatty beef. This way, you are able to lower your consumption of saturated fat and lower the level of LDL cholesterol in your blood. 

High cholesterol levels in the blood lead to the development of cardiovascular diseases such as heart disease and stroke. 

Below are some more high-protein foods to add to your diet:

• Corn
• Broccoli
• Cauliflower
• Potatoes
• Oats
• Tuna
• Chicken breast

Protein-Packed Diet Supplements

Protein Supplements, like the products sold here at AmBari Nutrition, have gained popularity in recent years for several reasons. They're convenient, cost effective compared to eating out or grocery shopping and cooking. Protein supplements should be used only as a 'supplement' and not completely replace all the whole foods that are you in your diet.