Protein and Weight Loss: Is there a Link?

Protein and Weight Loss: Is there a Link?

This decade, protein took center stage when it comes to dieting. With the entry of protein diets, carbohydrates and good fats almost became a thing of the past. Protein diet is the weight loss program making raves today. But is there really a link between protein and weight loss?

To clear the issue, here are the truths behind protein and weight loss:

1. Protein helps you curb your appetite.
   Studies show that protein helps you lose body weight by decrease your fondness for food. Eating more than enough protein in your diet would satiate your hunger more than necessary. And because you feel full you won't crave for any more food in the next several hours. The different protein diets and the Atkins diet indicate protein intake to be more than twice as much of what the American Dietetic Association prescribes.

2. Protein boosts metabolism and burns more fat.
   In a certain study, two groups of people are given different levels of protein in their meals. One group was given one gram for every pound of their body weight. The other group was given protein as stated in their respective Recommended Daily Allowance (RDA). After the test period, it was found out that the group who consumed more protein was able to burn more fats. Experts attribute this to the thermic effect of proteins.

3. Protein increases muscle mass.
   This is the main reason why protein is the favorite nutrient of body builders. But it can help dieters a lot as well. With the right amount protein in the body, muscles fibers are increased and fat is burned considerably. This is because protein delivers the energy that the body needs to perform exercises and other physical activities. Without protein, the body becomes sluggish and the person feels tired more often. If you don't move much, fats won't get burned. And they would accumulate in your body to eventually become toxins. This fact showing the link between protein and weight loss is simply hard to ignore.

4. Protein triggers the functions of a natural weight loss hormone.
   A certain study conducted by British researchers indicates that a certain hormone produced by the stomach is triggered with enough protein in the body. This is the most promising link between protein and weight loss just yet. The hormone, which is called the PYY hormone, is said to be the cure for obesity.

These are the facts behind protein and weight loss programs. Protein is a good nutrient for the body. However, it is best to consult with a professional health expert before devising a protein diet of your own.