According to the Journal of Clinical Nutrition, a high-protein diet combined with exercise enhanced weight and fat loss and improved blood fat levels. Researchers suggest that higher-protein diets help people better control their appetites and calorie intake.
Diets higher in protein and moderate in carbohydrates, along with a lifestyle of regular exercise are often purported by experts to reduce blood fats and maintain lean tissue while burning fat for fuel without dieters becoming sidetracked with constant hunger.
Researchers are still conducting experiments to better understand exactly how protein works to turn down appetite. They surmise that it may be because a high-protein diet causes the brain to receive lower levels of appetite-stimulating hormones. It may be due to eating fewer carbs and/or the specific protein effect on hunger hormones and brain chemistry.
Here is a delicious and simple way to add protein into your daily meal plan (that the little ones will love as well!)
1 Scoop Chocolate Protein Powder
3/4 C Frozen Raspberries (if using fresh add extra ice)
3/4 C Almond Milk
1 Tbsp. Ground Flax Seed
1/4 C Raw Old Fashioned Oats
Dash of Cinnamon
1/4 C Plain yogurt
1/2 Ice or to desired consistency
Blend all ingredients. For children, you can lessen the amount of protein powder and add raw cocoa powder if desired. Start with 1/2 tbsp. and add more to taste. You may need to add a sweetener such as stevia, honey or agave nectar.
Recipe provided by nutrition and exercise enthusiast: Kara K
