Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, things have obviously been a bit hectic for everyone.
Needless to say, nutrition has at times taken a back seat for me … as well as many of my friends.
With summer basically here, and gyms beginning to open their doors again … there’s a decent chance you are scrambling to get back on track like I am.
A common question I have been getting in the store in regard to this is “What are the best foods to eat to lose weight?”
Remember that the best diet is always going to be a sustainable one … one that you can stick too easily and enjoy.
With that being said I thought I would cover different foods you can implement in your diet TODAY to get back on track fast!
The number one food that someone looking to get into shape should focus on, is EASILY protein … especially complete protein sources.
What is a complete source of protein?
A complete protein source of protein contains an adequate proportion of each of the nine essential amino acids necessary to aid the body in preserving lean muscle tissue and burning fat. … simply put, a complete source of protein stimulates the body to save muscle and burn fat.
Why is this important? Naturally, our bodies are in mainly a catabolic state, which means we are breaking down muscle tissue for energy and storing body fat.
Eating a complete source of protein actually stimulates the body to get into an anabolic state, which means building muscle, and burning fat.
This is the number one area that most people struggle to consume enough of.
Some examples of complete protein sources are chicken, beef, tuna, eggs, fish, whey protein, and even cottage cheese!
Once you having worked more complete protein sources into your diet, the next step is focusing on timing. The body will only be in an anabolic state (muscle preserving/fat burning) for 2-4 hours after consuming a complete source of protein.
This means to maximize fat burning we should be looking to consume a complete source of protein every 2-4 hours throughout the day.
Ideally our daily total protein intake should be at least 1 gram of protein per 1 pound of body weight to get the best results possible.
Most people do a good job of eating a breakfast, lunch and dinner each day, but it’s getting protein in between that they are struggling with.
This is where I will always look to more fast and convenient options like tuna packets, cottage cheese, and sustained assimilation whey protein.
Getting these complete protein snacks in will make a huge difference when it comes to burning fat and building muscle.
For more ideas of complete protein sources and help dialing in a personalized plan, visit your local Supplement Superstores and talk with one of our Certified Sports Nutrition Specialist.
