Let us begin by stating the obvious: there’s no such thing as targeted fat loss. Meaning you can’t blast belly fat without also affecting your boobs and butt. Sorry. You can, however, boost your metabolism, which has been directly linked to the reduction of visceral fat (the dangerous kind we can’t see or feel that’s located deep inside the abdomen.)
The trick? Protein.
According to a study published in the US National Library Of Medicine, a diet rich in protein can increase the metabolic rate by 15 to 30 per cent. In comparison, carbs boast a five to 10 per cent increase, while fat sits at zero to 3 per cent. These findings suggest that those looking to shed pounds may see more success following a high-protein diet (e.g. paleo) over any other.
This isn’t the first time the high-protein/weight loss contention has been made:
Another study featured in the same journal showed that participants ate 441 fewer calories per day when one-third of their diet was made up of protein. Accredited practising dietician Natalie Von Bertouch puts this down to the fact that protein takes longer to digest, and therefore, keeps us fuller for longer.
“For optimum weight loss, each main meal should include 20-30g of protein, while snacks should include around 10g,” she told Women’s Health. “The best dietary sources of protein are meats, fish, nuts, beans, pulses and eggs.
If you're looking for more diet advice, check out what Steph Claire Smith eats while travelling.
What are your favourite sources of protein? Let us know in the comments.
This article was originally published on womenshealth.com.au
Main image credit: @stephclairesmith
Lucy is WH’s Digital Editor, Features Writer, social media guru and resident woo. A long black lover and foodie at heart, she considers peanut butter an hourly staple and believes chardonnay is the superior drop. When she's not at the beach, barre or yoga studio you'll find her coming up with new and improved ways to kill her unkillable houseplants
