Why Protein Should Not Be Overlooked in Your Weight Loss Plan

Why Protein Should Not Be Overlooked in Your Weight Loss Plan

Protein is extremely important while in a weight loss phase and in general nutrition. Most people under consume protein. Read more for some tips I have to help you more easily reach your protein targets.

Apart from getting those calories in check, if your goal is to lose weight, you have to eat more protein!



When we are in a weight loss phase, we are more prone to losing lean muscle mass. Eating more protein (as well as resistance training) can help mitigate loss of lean mass. Protein helps us to feel full and we actually use more energy to digest it than we do other foods. Protein is just so important for many things.

But, how do I eat more protein? I know it can be a struggle for many to fit in their protein or hit their protein goals. So here are a few tips!

First, remember that there are many different ways to incorporate protein other than meat: nuts & nut butters, eggs, edamame, tuna, Greek yogurt, seeds, beans, lentils, oats, & dairy products. Adding these options to your meal planning is sure to help increase your protein intake!

1.    1. Whatever protein source you’re already consuming, increase the portion slightly. Now try to be smart about this! Certain protein sources, like bacon and sausage, are very high in fat and cholesterol. Don't increase these portions by much, as there can be negative factors associated with this. But slightly increasing the portion of your fish, lean meats, and nuts can help you reach these goals!

2.       2. Have a high protein breakfast.  If you aim to get a good chunk of your protein in the morning then you are setting yourself up to hit your targets later in the day. You can easily bump up your protein at breakfast by including protein powder in foods (if you enjoy this), or by consuming eggs, nuts, and dairy.

3.       3. Have protein for a snack! Greek yogurt, cottage cheese, beef jerky, protein bar, protein shake, tuna, deli meat. I always tell my clients to pair a carbohydrate with a protein when having a snack. This provides you with energy and will help fill you up to get you through to your next meal. 

4.       4. Plan ahead and prep your proteins so they are ready to go! And will be less hassle when you are ready to eat. You can add cooked meat to soups, salads, mix in with frozen vegetables, etc. Also having your protein snacks ready to grab will help too. 

Versatile and easy! What other ways do you get your protein in each day?

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