5 Proteins To Add To Your Diet To Help You Shed Pounds

5 Proteins To Add To Your Diet To Help You Shed Pounds

Are you looking to shed some pounds by eating a balanced diet and becoming more active? If so, you’re on the right track! Combining a healthy diet with regular exercise not only lowers your risk for obesity and other health conditions, but it also helps you lose weight—especially by increasing your protein intake. Protein plays a pivotal role in weight loss, as it reduces appetite, boosts metabolism, and influences key weight-regulating hormones. These effects make protein a powerful ally in reducing body fat, particularly around the belly.

Why Protein Matters for Your Health and Weight Loss

Protein is an essential macronutrient that supports the health of your skin, bones, muscles, and more. It’s also crucial for achieving or maintaining a healthy weight. Experts agree that protein needs vary from person to person, depending on factors like age, activity level, weight, gender, and overall health. In general, 10%-35% of your daily calorie intake should come from protein. Since protein contains 4 calories per gram, if you consume about 2,000 calories a day, you should aim for 50-175 grams of protein daily.

Whether you’re hitting the gym or following other weight loss methods like TCM slimming, adequate protein intake should be a cornerstone of your fitness plan. In fact, many of the best weight loss programs in Singapore emphasise the importance of protein in effectively losing weight and improving overall health. In this article, we’ll highlight five top protein sources that will support your weight loss goals.

1. Fatty Fish

Although the term “fatty” might sound counterintuitive for weight loss, fatty fish are nutrient-rich protein sources with numerous health benefits. Cold-water fish like salmon, tuna, and trout are packed with heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids, which have been shown to reduce the risk of stroke. Additionally, eating seafood may help you reduce overall calorie intake, with just three ounces of salmon offering around 17 grams of protein.

For those on a budget, sardines are an affordable and versatile option. A can of sardines provides about 156 calories and 18 grams of protein. Try mashing sardines on avocado toast for a protein-packed breakfast, or adding them to pasta or Caesar salad. They also make a great snack when paired with whole-grain crackers, avocado, and a squeeze of lime or lemon.

2. Chicken

Chicken is one of the most accessible sources of protein. Skinless, white-meat chicken is a lean, low-fat option, with a four-ounce chicken breast providing about 32 grams of protein, along with essential nutrients like choline, iron, vitamin B, and zinc.

The versatility of chicken makes it a great addition to a variety of dishes. A chicken cutlet pairs wonderfully with a creamy sauce, while a chicken breast can be stuffed with goat cheese for extra flavour. Chicken is also great in salads and casseroles. If you’re exploring TCM weight loss in Singapore, consider incorporating chicken essence into your diet—it’s low in fat and sugar, but rich in proteins, amino acids, and di-peptides.

3. Eggs

Eggs have long been a subject of debate due to their cholesterol content, but research shows that they offer numerous health benefits. Eggs are packed with essential nutrients, including vitamin A, vitamin D, choline, lutein, zeaxanthin, and selenium, all of which help protect against chronic diseases.

As a high-quality protein source, eggs contain all nine essential amino acids, making them a benchmark for other protein-rich foods. According to the 2018 USDA National Nutrient Database, a large egg provides 6.3 grams of protein. Both the egg white and yolk contribute to this essential nutrient, making eggs an excellent option for your diet.

4. Tofu

Tofu, a plant-based protein derived from soybeans, is incredibly versatile and offers about nine grams of protein and only 71 calories per three-ounce serving. This makes it an excellent choice for weight management. In addition to protein, tofu is also rich in plant-based iron and calcium. It comes in different textures, so you can enjoy it in various dishes. For example, use soft tofu in smoothies for a creamy texture, or add firm tofu to stir-fries for a protein boost.

In TCM, tofu is believed to tonify qi and yin, clear heat, and detoxify the body. It’s also thought to help lubricate the lungs and promote body fluids.

5. Nuts

Nuts vary in protein content, with almonds and pistachios typically providing about six grams of protein per one-ounce serving. Incorporating these into your calorie-conscious diet can aid weight loss while offering additional health benefits, such as improving gut health and reducing blood pressure.

A 2022 study published in the European Journal of Nutrition found that consuming 30 to 50 grams of almonds daily can help reduce overall calorie intake. Other research indicates that people who regularly eat almonds tend to lose more weight than those on a nut-free diet. Nuts are also a great portable snack. Just be sure to choose unsalted varieties and eat them in moderation. Roasted unsalted nuts can even serve as a delicious crust for savoury or sweet dishes or be incorporated into energy bites.

Conclusion

There’s no doubt that protein plays a vital role in your weight loss journey by reducing appetite, boosting metabolism, and regulating hormones that control body weight. Incorporating protein-rich foods into your diet is crucial for healthy and effective weight loss. Keeping a food diary can help you track your protein intake and ensure you’re meeting your daily goals. Good options include fatty fish, chicken, eggs, tofu, and nuts, all of which offer essential nutrients and can easily be incorporated into meals and snacks.

To further enhance your results, consider exploring Slim Couture’s TCM weight loss program. For more information on how Slim Couture’s TCM methods can complement your weight loss journey, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re here to help you every step of the way!

PREV

Becoming Slim In The New Year: How To Get Back On Track

Sorry, the comment form is closed at this time.

Open chat