Posted on 7 Oct 2014

Protein in your Diet

Nutritionist agreed that protein is the best source of food for satisfying hunger, and fish is an excellent source of protein which is lower in fat to meat or poultry. It is considered protein takes longer to digest, which means you burn more calories processing them. As it takes longer for your stomach to process them it leaves you with a fuller feeling for longer.

The protein components of the human body make up about 16% of the total body weight; this includes the muscles and skin. Our daily intake is calculated by multiplying your weight in kilograms by 0.8 and weight in pounds by 0.37, this should equate to 10-35%. For body building or long distance running the evidence suggests this should be increased. The protein in our diet replaces and repairs the protein elements in our bodies. The proteins achieved from animal based products are considered high quality proteins. Vegetarians would replace the animal based proteins with plant based proteins to meet their needs.

Nutritionists recommend that around 50% of our diet should come from carbohydrates. Of course that is good carbohydrates, such as whole grains, fresh fruit and vegetables. Unsaturated fats are referred to as good fats and are thought to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. The daily intake should be no less than 20%. A good source of unsaturated fats is olive and canola oil, nuts, and seafood. A well balanced diet should consist of 50% of carbohydrates, 20% unsaturated fats, and 10-35% of proteins.

CONTENT SOURCES:

Health and Fitness Advice by FitFarms Nutrition and Editorial Team

Image Credit to TheScottishNutritionist.com

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