With the recent success of The Biggest Loser, many people are wondering about protein supplementation and how it can aid in weight loss. Contestants on The Biggest Loser can be seen mixing and drinking protein shakes, and each show presents a commercial stating that Tthe product, The Biggest Loser Protein, Designer Whey, is one of the most powerful tools for losing weight. In essence, protein shakes can be a powerful asset in weight loss if they are paired with a balanced diet and regular exercise.
The Benefits of Protein
While most people associate protein with building muscle, protein is used by our bodies in many different ways. Amino acids are small molecules that make up protein, and they are a necessity for muscle growth. However, protein also helps oxygenate our blood and maintain healthy hair, skin, and teeth. Protein also works with our immune systems and helps our blood to clot. Not only that, our bodies do not make protein, nor will our bodies readily store protein. Therefore, it’s essential to obtain protein from our diet.
Protein and Weight Loss
One of the main reasons that protein shakes promote weight loss lies in the fact that protein is very filling. Drinking a protein shake will curb the appetite significantly, decreasing the consumption of additional calories. However, it is important to know that all protein contains calories. The amount of calories per protein shake depends upon the brand of protein being consumed. Therefore, drinking protein shakes alone will not necessarily promote weight loss. In fact, drinking high caloric protein shakes may cause weight gain if not used in conjunction with exercise.
Protein and Exercise
If taken in concurrence with exercise, a protein shake can actually speed up the metabolism and create enhanced muscle growth. Plus, a person’s resting metabolic rate is higher when he/she has more muscles. The resting metabolic rate is the amount of calories the body burns during inactive periods. Essentially, speeding up our metabolism will allow our bodies to burn more calories both while we work out and while we don’t.
Protein Plan
For those who want to start implementing protein shakes into their diet, it’s a good idea to replace one meal a day with a protein shake. The remaining meals should include other vital nutrients from fruit, vegetables, and whole grains. Also, the protein powder for the shake should be chosen based upon calories. The number of calories one consumes should depend on the length and intensity of a person’s exercise. Minimally, protein shakes should accompany three 30 minute cardiovascular workouts and two 30 minute strength training workouts per week. Used correctly, protein shakes truly can aid in weight loss.
To learn more about the different types of proteins you can use for shakes, read the following article: Protein Powder Supplements for Fitness
Sources
High Protein Diet and Weight Loss- WebMD
Protein Shakes and Weigh Loss-The Mayo Clinic
The Importance of Protein-Max Muscle
