Eat your protein

The Rock

Eat your protein

There is so much we could say about protein & how important it is to consume more than enough everyday. Protein increases your fat-burning capacity, so we need to more of it, it tips the scales in your favour when it comes to ‘calories in vs calories out’. Without enough protein you can end up looking “skinny fat”, lacking muscle tone & definition.

So, what are proteins & why are they important … ?

Proteins are chains of amino acids & building blocks of all tissues in the body. Proteins are used to make bone, muscle, skin, hair & cells, & are actively involved in the production of enzymes – important for all our bodily functions.

As the body is unable to store essential amino acids, protein must be supplied daily from the foods we eat. As Aussies, we generally consume more protein per day than we need, however, our bodies will still excrete any excess.

The amount of protein we each require per day is dependent upon our age, weight, health needs & lifestyle.

When we are looking to lose weight, maintaining a good level of protein intake is essential. During weight loss, we will have periods where we lose both muscle & fat while our bodies adjust & our metabolism reboots. Adequate protein intake fuels fat burning while preserving calorie-burning lean muscle.

Increasing your protein intake is simple. Eat more protein-rich foods which include

  • Meats
  • Fish
  • Eggs
  • Legumes

In addition to food, a protein supplement such as a Whey powder, can help increase fat loss & improve metabolism. These are good options for post-training refuel, coupled with an additional carbohydrate, providing an ‘easy to swallow & stomach’ option after any tough session.

An important side note is that protein does not “bulk you up”, you won’t end up looking like a bodybuilder if you eat your protein. We need protein to aid any training goal – to lose weight, to build muscle & strength, to tone & define, & improve overall function.

It needs to be a vital part of your diet & lifestyle.