What are the Benefits of Eating Lean Proteins? by Lauretta Claussen, Demand Media SHARE RSS PRINT EMAIL It can be difficult to determine which proteins are considered lean. Getting adequate protein in your diet can offer myriad health benefits. Studies have shown protein can help whether you are looking to lose weight, bulk up, improve heart health or boost your energy. Incorporating lean protein into your diet is a critical component of a healthy eating plan. Sponsored Link Pall Mall Estates UK Commercial Property Specialists. Huge Range Online. Enquire Now! pallmallestates.co.uk Muscle-Building Power Proteins are the body’s building blocks: bones, muscles, skin and blood are all made up of protein. After a tough workout, muscles are rebuilt and repaired by the proteins you eat. Because of this, the American Dietetic Association, Dietitians of Canada and the American College of Sports Medicine in a joint statement recommended athletes get 0.5 to 0.8 grams of protein per pound of body weight. Weight Loss Aid When trying to lose weight, protein foods help you feel full longer, likely reducing the total number of calories eaten per day. A 2008 study in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition showed that protein increases satiety, and may increase metabolism. Consuming protein will also help the body maintain lean muscle mass, which is critical for a healthy weight loss plan. Heart Healthy A 2005 Johns Hopkins Medicine study indicated that a diet higher in protein may provide heart benefits. When study participants shifted 10 percent of their calories from carbohydrates to protein, they experienced a 21 percent reduction in their risk for cardiovascular disease. Their cholesterol levels improved and blood pressure lowered. The higher protein diet provided even greater health benefits than a traditionally healthy diet with higher consumption of carbohydrates. Why Lean is Important Though protein offers heart health benefits, many protein-rich foods are high in saturated fat, raising cholesterol and increasing the risk of coronary heart disease, ChooseMyPlate.gov warns. Higher fat protein foods to avoid include fatty cuts of meat, full-fat dairy, regular ground beef, hot dogs, bacon and processed luncheon meat. Turkey, skinless chicken breasts and beans are good lean protein options. Select beef cuts such as round steak or top sirloin, and ground beef that is at least 90 percent lean to get the protein benefits without the fat.
Posted on: Sun, 11 May 2014 18:52:03 +0000
Trending Topics
Recently Viewed Topics
© 2015