Traditionally we were taught that carbohydrates should provide our body with its primary supply of energy. However, many people have confused fast releasing carbohydrates (pasta, cakes) and slow releasing carbohydrates (whole grains, vegetables) eating too many of the former-the tempting, convenient, tasty variety! Most of us lead sedentary lives, so any excess energy from carbohydrate-rich food) is stored as fat.

We need protein in our diet to stay strong and healthy. If we don’t eat enough our bodies will steal it from our muscles and organs. In fact, protein is essential for the development of our muscles, which lead to an increase in the burning of calories. Our muscles could be described as fat furnaces as they keep our metabolism running high.And protein is very good at curbing appetite and balancing blood sugar in contrast to many “fast release” carbohydrate based foods and snacks.

Protein comes in the form of meat, soy products, cheese and dairy products. However, most of these are in the form of animal proteins, which add greatly to the bad cholesterol in our bodies. Therefore we need to look for high quality proteins, in our diet, from non-animal sources.Protein-enriched meal replacement shakes, protein supplement powders and high protein low carbohydrate snack products, contain protein sources which are easily absorbed and assimilated, and which allow you to reach your body’s protein requirements without those unwanted calories.

And for those concerned about Cholesterol levels? The inclusion of at least 25g Soya protein per day as part a diet low in saturated fats can help reduce blood cholesterol.

Find out more about a lean protein diet

As we grow older and exercise less, the task of staying fit and trim becomes even more difficult. And while a sensible diet combined with exercise is still the best answer, new research suggests that protein can play a major role in helping you achieve your weight loss goals faster.

A significant number of research studies support claims that protein can help you lose weight.

For several million years, humans existed on a diet of animals and vegetation. It was only with the advent of agriculture a mere 10,000 years ago – a fraction of a second in evolutionary time – that humans began ingesting large amounts of sugar and starch in the form of grains (and potatoes) into their diets. Indeed, 99.99% of our genes were formed before the advent of agriculture; in biological terms, our bodies are still those of hunter-gatherers.

Women need, on average, 100 grams of protein daily to build and maintain an optimal amount of lean-body mass. Men need more–averaging 150 grams of protein daily. The Ideal Meal allows you to meet these protein goals at a very low-calorie cost. These protein guidelines are designed to keep you from feeling hungry, and the calorie-controlled shakes allow you to incorporate plenty of healthy fresh fruits and vegetables into a balanced meal plan. Everyone has different protein needs based upon their size, build and age, so personalize your protein intake according to your needs.

Find out more about a protein diet plan