Do You Really Need A Protein Supplement To Lose Weight?

By Judy Sullivan


It is common knowledge that when you have excess weight and you intend to reduce it, the first step is to limit your food intake amongst other measures. Interestingly, as has been found out, this may not be entirely true. A new school of thought claims that you will need protein supplement to lose weight. This does sound rather outrageous, of course, but is it? We will look at the scientific basis of these claims and mention some of the risks that may arise from this practice. The main argument by the proponents is that the supplements help in gain of muscle and increases loss of excessive fat.

Proteins form part of a balanced diet together with carbohydrates, fats and vitamins. They play a very important role in the body as far as wound healing is concerned. They are also the main component of muscle. Some of the well-known sources include eggs, fish, meat, chicken, soy and dairy products. The daily recommended intake is about 70 grams. This can be obtained easily from an average diet. Excesses are usually converted to fat.

The supplements that are commonly used are supplied as whey powder. The powder is added to food in moderate amounts as shakes. One of the ways in which it achieves its effect is through a reduction of appetite particularly in the short term. This is achieved for all the food groups. Related to the same, is the fact that it induces early satiety and reduces the portions that are consumed at each sitting.

One of the greatest attributes that you will need if you are to succeed in your plan is commitment. The plan that has been created by the nutritionist should be followed to the letter. At the same time, you should continue exercising regularly so that you do not lose the gains that you have made. The reason as to why a good number of people do not successfully lose weight is because they are not committed and they keep making two steps forwards and three steps backwards.

Whey is cheap and easily available. It can be mixed with almost any kind of food because most brands are sweetened and flavoured. There are, however, a number of downsides that are associated with the use of shakes apart from possible nutritional deficiencies. One of them is the fact that long term use increases the risk of diverticulitis, heart disease and kidney disease.

It is important to emphasize that these may not always work. Some people may experience excellent results after a short while, others may have to wait a little longer and others may not see any change at all. The effectiveness largely depends on how well the other measures aimed at aiding in weight loss have been implemented. It is important to seek help if you notice that there is no improvement whatsoever.

When using the protein shakes, ensure that you do not forget the other food groups. You should ensure that your food remains balanced even if the portion is reduced. If this is not done, the risk for nutritional deficiencies is greatly increased.

You need to consider much more than the price if you need protein supplement to lose weight. The quality of the product is what should guide you. Usually, the components of any product are put on the description sheet. Ensure that you identify this description and read through it. If you have doubts about what you are about to buy, you should consult your nutritionist.




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