The Role of Protein in Weight Loss

More than ever especially nowadays, weight loss is something individuals who exceed their ideal weight try to involve themselves with and go to unnecessary efforts to achieve their desired weight. Although protein diets have been there for a while as a strategy for body weight management, there are still other aspects in the macronutrient protein for it to be beneficial for weight loss.

Protein, sometimes referred to as CHON by its chemical structure by Nutritionists or Dietitians, is one of the macronutrients essential for our body’s overall physiological and functional needs.

Protein is mainly known for its role in body repair or muscle synthesis which in itself supports weight loss by its involvement in lean body mass affecting metabolism rate.

Why is it important in weight loss?

Protein makes you burn more calories. As protein has its role in repairing tissue, the high thermic effect of protein allows you to burn more calories even at rest due to its property of boosting metabolism.

Protein makes you feel full. Research has shown that CHON is more satiating than its partner macronutrients (Carbohydrates & Fat).

Protein affects hunger. According to the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, the hunger hormone ghrelin is reduced and associated with a high-protein diet helping control appetite.

Protein provides needed B-Vitamins. The eight (8) B-Vitamins have their role in digestion, as they cohesively provide the support needed for digestion and other bodily processes simultaneously using energy.

Protein is found in a wide variety of food sources, and that includes animal and plant sources. Hence, optimal intake especially for athletes is recommended to meet dietary needs aiding maintenance and for some weight loss. (DMO II Gab Flores, RND)