Home: Low carb recipes :: high protien foods, low carb diet

High Protien Foods: Healthy and Non-Fattening?

Most of us know that the low-carbohydrate diets in vogue today, like Atkins, South Beach, and the Zone, not only require you drastically reduce your intake of carbohydrates, but they also advocate the consumption of high protien foods. Why are high protein foods important and why are they necessary in a low carb diet?

Consuming high protien foods is an important part of nutrition, whether you’re dieting or not. It is one of the basic components of our body and it is essential in the smooth operation of bodily functions. It is necessary for the building of virtually all body parts: muscle, blood, bones, skin and hair. One other thing is that the body does not have a reservoir of protein, so supplies need to be replenished continually, and this is where high protein foods come in.

But that doesn’t mean that a person should eat unlimited amounts of protein. Many people who go on a low carb diet have the misconception that they can eat all the protein that they want. The truth is the body needs only a certain amount of protein daily and you can get your share of this macronutrient for the day without resorting to overeating if you know what the best kinds of high protein foods are.

Eggs are particularly good sources of protein and, best for those on a low carb diet, they do not contain any carbohydrates. They are very inexpensive and can be used in a variety of dishes. Fish is also an excellent source of protein. A 100-gram serving of cod fillets contains about 21 grams and no carbs. The same serving size of roast beef will give you 28 grams of protein and roast chicken, 25 grams, both without the burden of carbs. There are many other great sources of protein that you can include in your low carb diet: dairy foods, beans, and soy products among them. For a quick snack, you can also buy an energy bar or a protein drink. Just make sure that they have little or no sugar content.

Eating high protien foods can be very good for the body. Just remember that as in most things, balance is important. If you consume a large amount of food, you need to exercise to realize the full benefits and results of your diet.