Whey Protein and Weight Loss
Whey protein and weight loss might seem like water and oil; they just dont' go together. This is probably because for years protein supplements were the preferred choice of only elite bodybuilders. We pictured these athletes bulking up by adding extra protein to their diet.
Bodybuilders bulk up by lifting weights and not by consuming protein. If all you did was add more protein to your diet you would gain fat and not muscle. However, if you are eating the proper amount of lean protein as part of a balanced daily diet you can turn your body into a fat-burning machine.
Whey protein is found in many weight loss products and meal replacement food items. It is the whey protein isolates that are especially desirable for weight loss because of their low-fat and low-carbohydrate content. When you combine the proper amount of whey protein and a well-rounded exercise program you will build lean muscle mass. This muscle will burn more calories and start melting away your excess body fat.
You would probably agree with most other dieters that it is hunger that usually wins out over your desire to lose weight. Calorie-restricting diets have this very natural effect on our bodies. Severely reducing calories is never successful for long term weight loss. But hunger makes creating a moderate calorie deficit difficult. Whey protein has been shown to combat these feelings of hunger by promoting hormones responsible for appetite suppression. This can significantly contribute to your weight loss program by preventing late night snacking and even binge eating at the end of the day.
Whey protein and weight loss have also been linked because of whey protein's ability to prevent stress eating. Maybe you've eaten a handful of cookies and afterward realized that you weren't even hungry at the time. We've all done this and many times it is related to stress. That is why stress and obesity are closely related. Whey protein stimulates the production of a natural relaxation hormone, serotonin. Serotonin lowers anxiety levels and helps stop us from stress eating. For many people, this alone will help them lose weight and body fat.
We are well aware of the rise in obesity and diabetes. Whey protein and weight loss have been researched to determine if whey has an effect on insulin sensitivity. It does appear that whey protein improves insulin sensitivity and aids in weight loss through this mechanism.
If you are going to lose weight exercise will be an important part of the process. Whey protein helps you maximize the weight loss benefits of exercise. Research has shown that whey protein helps you gain lean muscle mass when you work out and this muscle increases your body's ability to burn fat.
Based on scientific research and the experience of many successful losers of body fat, a whey protein shake might be a great-tasting addition to your list of foods that will help you lose those extra 10 pounds.
Dr. Steve Tuggle is a practicing dentist, certified personal trainer (ACE, ACSM), certified wellness coach, life coach, ordained minister, and internet entrepreneur. You can learn more about how to improve your health and wellness at http://www.elite-wellness-coaching.com
For more information on whey protein and HOW TO LOSE BELLY FAT visit http://www.elite-wellness-coaching.com/whey-protein-shake.html
