Have you heard people in the fitness raving about protein intake and want to know why? Is hitting your protein goal each day something you struggle with and has begun to feel like a chore?
Here are 3 ways protein will help you achieve your goals and the sources to help you reach your targets enjoyably!
1) Help Increase Muscle Mass
As most of you probably already know, protein is made up of amino acids, which are the
building blocks of the muscles in your body. These are used to build, repair and maintain
muscle tissue through muscle protein synthesis.
Protein synthesis occurs as a results of stress being placed on a muscle (lifting weights)
and without it your muscles won't grow.
Protein is the primary component of muscle tissue, so it's no revelation that a diet high in
protein helps you increase muscle mass and strength faster!
2) Manage your weight by keeping you fuller for longer
Protein can increase the release of hunger-suppressing hormones which increases satiety,
keeping us feeling full.
This suggests that a diet high in protein is a great way to lose stubborn fat.
3) Burn more calories just from digestion
Protein has the highest thermic effect of food, meaning it uses more energy than
carbohydrates and fats to breakdown and absorb the macronutrient.
This allows people who consume a high protein diet to see faster fat loss results!
Sources
Often when we think of protein sources, we think of our meats like beef, lamb, pork, chicken or fish.
When we try to increase our intake this can become to feel like a chore through these sources
alone!
In future, try not to forget about the below sources to mix it up and not feel like you are constantly
eating meat!
Other Protein Sources
Cold Meats - Turkey Breast, Ham, Chicken, Smoked Salmon
Canned Meats - Tuna, Chicken, Salmon
Non Meat Options - Eggs/Egg Whites, Vegetarian Options
Dairy - Greek Yoghurt, Cottage Cheese
Vegetarian - Tofu, Quorn Mince, Legumes
I hope this helps you with future food planning and give you a better understanding as to why this is such an important macronutrient!
*Disclaimer: Individual results vary based on agreed goals. Click here for details.
