High Protein Diets

Ever wonder how they work exactly?

When it comes to high protein diets many people think of the Atkins diet which is similar, but is actually considered a low carbohydrate diet, which often contains large amounts of fat.

It doesn’t have to be that way. You can choose lean and healthy proteins for a weight loss program.

After studying this concept for years and using this type of diet as a quick fix for weight loss, this is pretty much how they work.

Feel Fuller Longer

Have you ever stuffed yourself with a big plate of Chinese food that consisted mainly of vegetables only to feel hungry again about half an hour later?

That’s because veggies are digested much faster and studies have shown that our hunger is satisfied longer when we fill up with protein, particularly meat.

Increased Metabolism

A high protein diet may change a person’s metabolism. When you consume little or no carbohydrates the body looks for alternative fuel sources and begins to use our stored fat for energy.

This action is known as ketosis and works well for weight loss. Though caution is required because this type of diet should not be used for long periods of time. A two week period usually works well and can show significant results.

The Holiday Diet is a good example of a high protein diet as it provides little carbohydrates but lots of protein.

Pros:

Not only can you achieve weight loss but high protein diets usually follow the concept of proper food combining which can often help with stomach bloating.

After about 3 or 4 days it feels like your tummy has shrunk in size.

To truly lose a descent amount of weight most of these diets encourage drinking lots of water which helps detox the body and keep calorie intake low.

Cons:

Since you’re loading up on protein (mainly meats) and decreasing the amount of other healthy foods which contain much needed fiber (veggies and fruits), temporary constipation can become an issue.

Other possible side effects may also include headache, temporary feeling of weakness due to low blood sugar, headache, dizziness and bad breath.

If you are a meat lover this diet may be easy to swallow but it is not nutritionally balanced and lacks many of the daily nutrients we need. Taking a vitamin and mineral supplement during this time can be beneficial.

Caution:

For those who use high protein diets for weight loss this type of plan should only be used as a quick fix. Eating is this fashion for months can bring about serious health issues.

Conditions may arise such as kidney problems, risk of osteoporosis, digestive problems and these plans lack the vitamins, minerals and nutrients our bodies need to maintain good health.

As with any weight loss program, if you experience any kind of negative side effects stop the program immediately.

Choose Lean Protein:
Fowl such as chicken, turkey, pheasant and duck
Fish/Seafood
Lean cuts of pork such as pork chops
Lean cuts of beef
Eggs
Beans

Proteins to Eat in Moderation:
Cheese (some cheeses are rich in calories & fat)
Nuts & Seeds (contain a fair amount of oil)
Meats that may contain fillers and be higher in fat content such as hot dogs, sausage and bacon

The fat content is truly common sense and if in doubt check the nutritional facts label on the products you buy.

Tips for High Protein Diets:

When preparing meals avoid frying foods and prepare instead by grilling, baking, broiling or steaming using minimal amount of butter and oils.  

As mentioned above drinking lots of water helps keep you hydrated, helps curve hunger pains and is calorie free.

Try eating only 3 meals a day and avoid snacking at all costs. Just think this is only temporary as high protein diets should last no longer than 1 – 2 weeks.

To increase weight loss success follow the golden rule of food combining and avoid mixing proteins and starches.

It’s really quite simple, just enjoy your protein with vegetables that contain little or no starch (green salads are always a good choice).

Avoid potatoes and rice if possible as those are high in starch.

It doesn’t have to be an exact science and you can use the
food combining chart to get a better grasp of the concept.

Wishing you health and happiness

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