What Is the Whey Protein for Fat Flush Plan?

What Is the Whey Protein for Fat Flush Plan?
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Lean protein consumption is a key feature in all versions of the Fat Flush plan, a low-carb, low-calorie program devised by nutritionist, Ann Louise Gittleman. The plan has spawned nine books and a supplement line over the last decade. In each version, Gittleman theorizes that specific food choices lead to an efficient metabolism and a leaner body. With this in mind, she created a criteria checklist for protein powders that are a quick and economical method for protein intake. Uni Key Health manufactures Gittleman's brand of protein powder, but Fat Flush dieters can choose other brands that meet the Fat Flush criteria.
Check with your health care provider before beginning any new diet plan.

Essential Amino Acids

Soy and wheat protein powders do not contain all of the essential amino acids, according to Gittleman. Studies at Victoria University have shown whey protein to be an effective method for boosting muscle growth, and the Fat Flush programs recommend this protein source for most program followers. Uni Key produces a vanilla and a chocolate version of Fat Flush whey protein. Vegans use Fat Flush Body Protein, which is a mix of yellow pea and brown rice proteins. This combination also provides the full range of the essential amino acids.

Heat Free

Choose a whey protein powder that has not been heated during the manufacturing process, says Gittleman in "The Fat Flush Foods." She explains that some manufacturers use a cheaper process of heating liquid whey to dehydrate it into powder, which can destroy several delicate essential amino acids. According to the website MedlinePlus, the human body cannot make essential amino acids, so they must be eaten to provide the building blocks for normal cell growth.

Isolate Versus Concentrate

Read labels carefully when shopping, as there is a large difference between whey protein isolate and whey protein concentrate, says Gittleman. Isolate contains 90 to 95 percent protein with little fat or lactose content. The concentrate can contain as little as 25 percent protein with the remaining calories coming from fats or sugars.

Sugar Free

Low-carb diet plans like Fat Flush avoid added sugar as a means of keeping blood insulin levels steady. Not all types of sugar used in manufacturing food products use the word "sugar," so look for other names like corn syrup, dextrose, crystalline fructose and maltose to avoid this ingredient.

Artificial Sweetener Free

Avoid the chemical sweeteners aspartame, neotame, acesulfame K and sucralose, as they can increase the stress load on your liver, says Gittleman. The Fat Flush plan approves of the herbal sweetener stevia, particularly when it includes inulin, a probiotic that nourishes the GI tract with friendly bacteria.

References

Article reviewed by Tina Boyle Last updated on: Oct 30, 2010

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