What Are the Benefits of a High Protein Diet?
As the body’s “architect,” protein plays a vital role in building and maintaining body structures, including muscles, tendons, ligaments, circulatory system, brain, immune system, skin and other organs. These structures need a regular supply of “fresh” protein to build new cells. Unfortunately, when you cut calories to lose weight, you tend to cut protein-rich foods out of your diet. Without protein, your body tissues start to break down. Taking a closer look, all protein consists of amino acids. When you eat protein-rich foods, your body breaks down the protein into its amino acids and rebuilds them in specific sequences to form the structures it needs. However, your body can’t make nine specific amino acids (called essential amino acids), so it relies on your daily food intake for its necessary supply. In addition, research has shown that protein-based meals fill you up more than a carbohydrate based meal. Protein gives food its “staying power” so you’ll feel less hungry. That’s why
