Dear Nutrigirl:
I have some questions for you...
I was told about a type of protein you can drink at night (comes in powder form) that helps you lose weight by keeping your metabolism working as you sleep.
My questions:
1) have you ever heard of this type of protein drink
2) does it work?
Hey Michelle!
Thanks for your questions. While there is research out there that higher protein diets (i.e Atkins) help with weight loss, there is little to say that protein powder (by itself or used in conjunction with a diet) will promote weight loss on it's own, especially while we sleep.
If you are adding whey protein (or other protein powder) to your diet, you're also increasing the calorie load. So, the protein powder would have to take the place of other calories (from carbs, fat, alcohol, etc).
Many body building sites will recommend protein powder to build lean muscle. But, the only way to do that is through strength training exercise/resistance training along with protein powder. In fact, some people may gain weight because muscle weighs more than fat.
My advice is to include protein with meals to provide more satiety (feeling of fullness between meals), which may reduce your appetite. Protein also helps regulate blood sugar better, which can help with weight reduction by reducing insulin levels. Insulin is a fat-storing hormone. So, when blood sugar goes up from eating lots of carbs, insulin levels rise, too.
My top protein choices:
Eggs or egg whites
Natural peanut butter
Low fat cottage cheese
Greek-style yogurt
Lean meat or skinless poultry
Dried beans or lentils
Fish
Bottom line- replace some of your carbs with protein, but keep the calories limited if you want to lose weight.
Hope that helps!
Lisa
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