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.

The secret to the success of any weight loss program is commitment. One needs to keep to the plan prescribed by their nutritionist. Failure to do this may lead to loss of the gains that have been made. Many people never really get anywhere because they slip back into their old habits as soon as they start noticing a positive change. They stop exercising and fail to watch their diet. You need to be consistence and adopt the new lifestyle with a positive attitude.

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.

The results are very variable. Some people may notice almost immediate results while others have to wait much longer. Others may not notice any significant change at all. Instead of panicking, consult with your doctor or nutritionist. The important thing to emphasize here is that the success of this therapy heavily relies on the success of the other measures that have been put in place.

Even as you use this therapy, make sure that you do not forget about the other food groups. A balanced diet is important regardless of what you weigh. If you cut on the other foods, you increase your risk for nutritional deficiencies.

If you need a protein supplement to lose weight, ensure that you consult your nutritionist first. It is such a professional that will guide you on what to buy depending on the magnitude of your problem. If you cannot find a qualified nutritionist, the best thing would be to conduct thorough research on the product of your choice rather than to be guided by what is said in the commercials.




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