The importance of protein in weight management

Protein is one of the key macronutrients that your body requires to function. Protein is one of the basic building blocks that make up our cells, skin, hair, joints, etc. If high-sugar carbs are the "bad guy" in weight-loss, then protein is most definitely the "good guy." Protein can curb your appetite and can also boost your metabolism. Lean meats such as chicken breast, turkey, tuna, eggs, fish and some grains are good sources of complete protein. Individuals on a weight-loss program may want to supplement their diet with protein shakes in order to get the recommended amount of protein per day. In general, an active healthy woman should get anywhere from .8 to 1 gram of protein per pound of body weight per day. This means a 120 lb woman should eat 96-120 grams per day. The protein allotment should be broken into 5-6 smaller meals with 16-20 grams per meal. Diets should also be high in healthy vegetables and plenty of fresh water.