Thursday, September 10, 2009

Low Fat High Protein Diet

High protein diets are marketed as body-building diets because muscle is made mainly of protein. They are often ineffective because excess protein is not stored within the body (see body building), and insufficient energy is the usual factor limiting muscle growth, not lack of protein. High protein diets are also marketed as weight-loss diets on the basis that proteins are complex molecules that need a lot of energy to be digested. It is claimed that up to 30 per cent of the energy content of protein is required for its digestion, but this claim is disputed. It is generally accepted that protein yields about the same amount of energy as carbohydrates (approximately 4 kilocalories per gram). Furthermore, many high protein diets (especially those using animal protein) are rich in saturated fats and cholesterol, which carry a health risk and make a significant contribution to obesity.
Proteins essentially contain amino acids which act as the building blocks of the body. Thus, foods which are very rich in proteins can effectively make your strong and increase the rate of metabolism. As proteins are rich in amino acids it ensures that the metabolism rate of your body increases. Thus, increased rate of metabolism helps you body to burn the excess fat at a steady pace.
1) Chicken: This low fat food would satisfy both your taste and concern of weight loss. Further, if you are more conscious regarding the fat intake then you can opt for the white meat available in the drumsticks and thighs of the chicken. This is particularly because these portions very less fat content.
2) Fish: Though fish contains some high level of fat it is very rich in Omega-3 fatty acids. It helps your body to avoid heart and coronary diseases. Most importantly, this item can effectively promote weight loss.
3) Beef: Though beef is rich in fats it comes loaded with compounds which are necessary for building quality muscles. However, you can minimize the fat content in beef by selecting the leanest cuts.