BY COACH NADIA POPOVA
The first thing that comes to mind when thinking about losing extra pounds is eating less. The good news is you don’t need to starve yourself to get slimmer. Today, I want to talk about the importance of protein in a healthy diet and ways to get enough protein more easily.
Why Does Protein Matter?
Protein is one of the essential macronutrients, which supports a variety of bodily functions, including muscle repair and growth. Any workout, especially strength training, results in tiny tears in muscle fibers. It is inevitable as it is a part of the process of muscle growth. However, to repair and restore, muscles need sufficient protein.
Another crucial benefit of protein for the achievement of a lean physique is that it helps boost metabolism. Protein has a higher thermic effect compared to fats and carbohydrates, meaning your body burns more calories digesting protein. This can help in managing weight and reducing body fat, contributing to a leaner appearance.
Three Easy Ways to Meet Your Protein Goals
- Eat Protein with Every Meal Aim to have at least 20 grams of protein in each of your three main meals. There’s a variety of sources to choose from for each meal of the day – lean meats, fish, eggs, dairy products, nuts, beans, tofu, etc.
- Start Your Grocery Shopping at the Meat Section Start at the meat or fish section when grocery shopping to prioritize protein sources and set a solid foundation for your meals before moving on to other parts of your shopping list. For plant-based proteins got to the aisles with beans, lentils, nuts, tofu, and protein-rich grains.
- Stick to High-protein Options When Eating Out
Eating out can be challenging when trying to maintain a high-protein diet, but it’s manageable with a bit of strategy. Start by checking the menu for protein-rich options first, such as grilled meats, fish, shrimp, or vegetarian protein sources. Once you’ve identified a protein-rich dish, you can move on to the side dishes.
By following these tips and working out consistently, you will see the desired changes in your body weight and body composition in no time!
To maximize the effect of your workouts, you can hire a personal trainer from the Send Me a Trainer team. Our trainers will create a tailored workout program based on your current fitness level and desired results. They will come to any place you prefer to work out and adapt the program accordingly, helping you reach your goals stress- and injury-free.
To schedule Free Assessment/Training call or text (760)880-9904
