So, what are the benefits of protein in our diets? Why does protein help us lose weight? Is protein good for us?
First of all, protein is excellent for keeping you satisfied. Foods are made of three components—protein, carbs, and fats. Protein is the component that fills you up and decreases the hunger-inducing hormone known as ghrelin. So simply by adding more protein to your diet, you'll feel fuller and experience fewer cravings.
That doesn't mean you have to eat only protein, of course, but by increasing your protein and reducing your carbohydrates, you'll feel fuller longer. Using It's Skinny Pasta in your recipes helps. It's Skinny is made with konjac root, which contains glucomannan fiber. This fiber helps your blood sugar stay steady and fills up your stomach. When you combine protein with It's Skinny, you have a craving-killer combo.
Protein also helps you stay fit by building muscle. You can get energy from carbohydrates and burn calories with cardio, but if you really want to build muscle mass, you'll need to combine protein and strength training. It's especially important to watch your protein intake if you're dieting or reducing calories because you can lose muscle in the process.
Followers of the keto diet know that when your body shifts into ketosis, it starts burning through your fat stores. So, by including plenty of protein in your diet, you'll keep your energy levels up and satisfy your appetite without slipping yourself out of ketosis.
Even if you aren’t following keto, increasing your protein and decreasing your carbs is generally a good way to cut calories and lose weight. Although both protein and carbohydrates have about 4 calories per gram, protein tends to be more satisfying, so you fill up with less.
Protein is also very good for you. It can help you recover from injuries and maintain your muscles, tissues, and organs. Many proteins contain other essential vitamins like B12 and minerals like iron that are crucial for good health.
So, whether you're following a specific high-protein, low-carb diet like keto or paleo or simply trying to eat a little healthier, focus on increasing your protein.