How to Pull Off a High-Protein Diet

A high-protein diet can be dangerous, but close monitoring of the types of food you consume is needed when you seriously want to manage your weight or start a diet because of an illness.

Who Needs a High-Protein Diet?

Your doctor might recommend that you start a high-protein diet if you belong to the following groups: individuals who gain weight fast, bodybuilders, middle-aged people, and those who want to change their diet. This means that anyone can start a high-protein diet to become healthier overall. However, there is a misconception about what type of food you need to consume.

How Much Protein Do You Need?

The recommended daily allowance for protein depends on the weight of the person. Generally, those who weigh 150 pounds or less will need 54 grams of protein per day, while a person who weighs 200 pounds will needs 73 grams of protein daily.

However, this is only a guide that does not take into account the activities you do, age, and carbohydrate intake. If you are an athlete or a bodybuilder, make sure to consult your doctor or dietitian to determine how much protein you will need.

What Type of Food to Avoid?

Most of those who start a high-protein diet usually make the mistake of choosing food that are high in carbohydrates and calories, but low in nutrients. For example, if you want to build more muscle mass, then that does not mean you need to eat more of everything.

You should avoid food with simple sugars, lots of sodium, and greasy dishes. The idea of a high-protein diet is to look for wholesome food full of nutrients, not just food high in protein content.

What are the Best Sources of Protein?

Most of your diet should consist primarily of food that are rich in good nutrients but low in calories and saturated fat. These include consuming more seafood, lean meat, soy, beans, eggs, nuts, seeds, and low-fat dairy.

Similar to any type of diet, you need to learn how to read labels and to prepare your own food at home if possible. It will be easier to monitor your calorie count if you know what you put in your food than if you eat at restaurants or buy pre-packed food at shops in Singapore.

How About Fats and Carbs?

A high-protein diet does not mean you should avoid fats and carbohydrates altogether. These are essential for your body to function properly, which is why you should pick fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, low-fat yogurt and milk, and legumes and beans. You can get healthy fats from fish, avocado, nuts, nut butters, olives, seeds, extra virgin olive oil, and canola oil.

Is It Bad for You?

A high-protein diet has dangers but only if you do not monitor your nutrient intake. This danger is common in almost any type of diet, however, that is why you should consult your doctor before starting a diet.