In this article we will talk about what you can eat on a protein diet.We will list all the allowed products and, of course, we will mention the ones that are not allowed.
A protein diet is traditionally considered one of the most effective ways to lose extra pounds.However, the popularity of this diet is not only due to its effectiveness.Many people admit that a protein diet is quite easy for them.Of course, the feeling of hunger with such a food system certainly does not threaten!A relatively light diet - protein.
There are several types of protein diets.For example, the famous and controversial Kremlin diet is based on these nutritional principles.But no matter what the protein diet is called, the essence does not change: a person who wants to lose weight must strictly limit fats and carbohydrates in his diet, giving priority to protein foods.
So, we will understand what you can eat on a protein diet.Let's begin.
Why does a protein diet work?
First you need to understand why protein diets are so effective.Our body requires "fuel" to maintain vital functions.The main "energy drink" that provides long-term satiety and gives you energy is carbohydrates.Foods rich in carbohydrates are high in calories - all the energy we do not use during the day "goes into reserve".Yes, yes, as you have already guessed, this reserve is fat deposits: if suddenly times of hunger come, it is these reserves that will prevent the body from drying out.
If we stop eating carbohydrates, the body is forced to compensate for their lack by burning accumulated fat.If we significantly reduce the intake of foods rich in fat, we will not feed our "fat store".As a result, the hated folds will begin to disappear, which were previously impossible to remove.
But you can't live completely without food, can you?This is where proteins come to our aid, which are the main building material for our muscles.By the way, athletes use a protein diet during the so-called "drying": thanks to it, the subcutaneous fat disappears, exposing the muscles.The body becomes sculpted and beautiful.
It is recommended to combine a protein diet with physical exercise – this way you can preserve muscle tissue without letting it break down.The paradox is that it is easier for the "dieting" body to get energy from the muscles, leaving the fat reserves intact.
Do you want to have the figure of a healthy athlete, not an emaciated person?Then do not give up physical activity.
The main foods in a protein diet
Unfortunately, the diet in a protein diet cannot even be called diverse.The fact is that there are not so many protein-rich foods.
Here's what you can eat on a protein diet:
- Fish– you can choose sea and river varieties.However, you should make sure that the fish is not too oily.
- meaty- It is good to give preference to low-fat varieties.For example, if you buy chicken, it is advisable to eat its breast.The skin and thighs should be left to other family members.
- Low-fat dairy products.Low-fat cottage cheese is an excellent source of calcium and protein.However, you should monitor the composition of the products you buy.The inscription "0% fat" does not mean that this product can be eaten on a protein diet.For example, low-fat yogurts are often high in carbohydrates.As you know, this option does not suit us.
- Egg whites.Some protein diets allow the consumption of egg yolks.
What else can you eat on a protein diet?
I agree, munching on a chicken breast while eating egg whites is pretty boring.The diet should be varied with side dishes.It is recommended to choose salads with vegetables.True, they should be salted to a minimum, and also avoid any sauce other than lemon juice.And no butter, much less mayonnaise.
But you also need to choose healthy vegetables wisely.The following vegetables fit best into the concept of a protein diet:
- cabbage;
- tomatoes;
- cucumber;
- lettuce;
- celery.
Flour products, sweets and foods rich in carbohydrates should be completely excluded from the diet.By the way, the latter also includes fruits.Although eating a green apple a day is quite acceptable.