Protein weight loss products may be the key to successful dieting for some users, as research indicates protein increases satiety, according to a 2005 study published in the "American Journal of Clinical Nutrition." Before you purchase a plethora of protein-rich products for weight loss, consider the natural selections you may already own, such as eggs, cheese and nuts.
Protein Diets
High-protein, low carbohydrate diets gained recognition with the inception of the Atkins diet, a plan developed in 1972 by cardiologist Robert C Atkins. Dr. Atkins claimed dieters would gain a metabolic advantage by severely restricting carbohydrates and focusing instead on high-protein foods. Dieters who eliminate or drastically reduce carbohydrates from their diet promote ketosis -- a medical term for the process of burning fat for fuel.
Protein Bars
Protein bars are as varied as candy bars and as easily accessible, due to the popularity of high-protein diets. As a weight-loss tool, protein bars are helpful for those who have neither the time nor the energy to make a home-cooked meal. Because they're packaged like a snack, however, they lack the feel of a meal. This might leave some dieters feeling deprived.
Protein Shakes
Protein shakes are suitable for dieters who don't mind sipping their calories, but dieters who prefer a solid meal might quickly become dissatisfied with the canned cuisine. Additionally, regularly replacing your meals with protein shakes may deprive you of essential nutrients found in whole foods, says Mayo Clinic nutritionist Katherine Zeratsky, R.D., L.D. If you drink these shakes in addition to your meals, you may actually gain weight.
Considerations
Although protein has many benefits to health and weight loss, it's wise not to make it the only component to your diet. It's best to eat a balance of healthy foods from every food group. Most adults need around 46 g to 56 g of protein daily. Consuming more is not necessary, says MayoClinic.com. Additionally, high-protein diets may cause kidney stones and are potentially dangerous for people with chronic kidney disease.
References
- MayoClinic.com; Atkins Diet: What's Behind the Claims; July 2009
- MayoClinic.com; Protein Shakes: Good for Weight Loss?; Katherine Zeratsky, R.D., L.D; April 2010
- National Kidney Foundation: Diet and Kidney Stones
- "American Journal of Clinical Nutrition;" A High Protein Diet Induces Sustained Reductions in Appetite...; July; 2005; David S Weigle, et al.
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