“Give me a high protein and low carb diet.”
It is the most common request I get from a weight loss client. With popular diets such as Atkins and Dukan to the recent Ketogenic one, proteins have always been painted as a favorite and magical nutrient for weight loss. Unlike carbs and fats, proteins have always got good publicity by nutritionists.
After all, proteins boost metabolism, shrink appetite, reduce the hunger hormone and increase satiety hormones.
But before you jump on this high-protein bandwagon to reach your desired weight, it’s a good idea to know the role of proteins, the food sources, and your recommended protein intake.
What are proteins and why do you need them?
Proteins are macronutrients, like carbs and fats, which your body needs in substantial amounts to carry its multiple functions. As enzymes, proteins aid in digestion and create DNA; and as antibodies, proteins allow you to combat infection; as haemoglobin, proteins play a key role in transporting oxygen across the body. Simply put, proteins do more than just help build strong muscles.