Healthy- High Protein Diet Lose the Weight, Not the

Healthy- High Protein Diet Lose the Weight, Not the Muscle

For those looking for that toned body but do not want to lose the muscle, a high protein diet is just what you need. Protein is the building blocks of the human body. Whether you are looking to simply lose weight, build muscle or both, a diet high in protein will help.

Each year, our bodies produce new cells from the food we eat, particularly foods high in protein. Body cells are constructed through protein to build body structures such as hair, skin, nails, connective tissue, bones and muscle. This is why it is important that we consume enough protein to keep our bodies performing well. When you consume large amounts of protein combined with lower amounts of carbs, this allows the body to burn energy more slowly and keeps blood sugar at normal levels.

A high protein diet will help you maintain muscle mass while you shed off unwanted pounds of fat. This is because protein foods actually speed up the metabolism due to the fact that the body has to work harder to digest them. Also, protein is the type of food that is less likely to be converted into fat as most of the other foods are.

Some foods that can be eaten in this type of diet are:

* Chicken breast

* Fish

* Shellfish

* Turkey breast

* Egg whites

* Low fat or preferably non fat dairy products

* lean red meats

* Whey-based protein powders and shakes

Although a long term high protein diet is not suitable for maintaining a healthy lifestyle, it is a great short term solution for burning off fat and maintaining muscle. The key to this diet is to consume less carbohydrates and more protein. This will keep calories at a minimum, however, above starvation level where muscle mass could be affected.

Whether you realize it or not, the time of day you eat matters. Breakfast is a crucial time to consume protein foods as well as before you work out. You can also eat these foods for your evening meal but keep it at least 3 hours before you retire for bed. Snacks are permitted as well as long as they consist of a protein bar or shake or fresh fruits and vegetables.

If you are looking to sculpt that perfect body without losing essential muscle mass, a high protein diet will definitely benefit you. Combined with weight training exercises or low intensity workouts, it is a great way to lose weight, feel great and diet healthy.

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