Maybe you don't aspire to be a bodybuilder.
But if you are like millions of other Americans, you do aspire to lose a few pounds, firm up, get a little stronger.
Is protein that big of a deal for someone who's not training for the Arnold?
If you want results, yes. Protein is still a big deal.
A new study published in the Nutrition Journal takes a look at how high protein compares to high carbohydrate ratios can impact weight loss.
The researchers' thinking was this. Yes, high protein diets have been shown to be great for weight loss and improving body composition (read: less fat, more muscle). But they felt that most of the studies they found on the topic involved what they dubbed the "wrong" kind of carbs (I'm guessing this means refined carbs, sugar, etc.)
They wanted to see what would happen when women consumed a moderately high protein diet (30% protein/40% carb) compared with a high "healthy" carb diet (50% carb - 35 grams of which was fiber - 20% protein). Both diets contained moderate amounts the same fats and oils.
Both groups lost weight and improved on cardiovascular measures like LDL cholesterol, triglycerides,etc. But in the end, the high protein group lost more body weight and more bodyfat, and had greater decreases in blood pressure.
More on the power of protein for healthy weight management:
Study Confirms More Protein, Fewer Carbs to Keep Weight Off
Protein, Leucine, and Losing Weight
