Starting Tomorrow - Diet Time!

Tell me, what better time of year is there to shed excess weight than summer? So if you, like many others, are planning to start a diet, and particularly a protein diet - there are a few facts you should know about it.

A study was conducted at the University of Otago in New Zealand, involving 84 participants aged 18-65, all of whom had excess abdominal fat in common. The study found that a protein diet is the most effective and preferred method for weight loss, especially when dealing with significant amounts of fat concentrated around the abdomen.

This type of obesity, concentrated in the abdominal area, is also known as "metabolic obesity." It is directly linked to the hormone insulin. When this hormone does not function properly, insulin levels in the body rise, leading to a constant feeling of hunger, causing a craving for carbohydrates to satisfy the hunger. Increasing the protein levels in your daily diet, while simultaneously adjusting carbohydrate intake, will balance hunger hormones and provide a sense of fullness throughout the process.

Additional studies from three university research centers: the University of Navarra in Spain; the University of Copenhagen in Denmark; and the University of Reykjavik in Iceland - have reviewed all diet types published to date and formulated nutritional recommendations. These recommendations include, among other things, a demand for the inclusion of dietary fiber, calcium, and antioxidant minerals - which help in reducing abdominal fats.

It is important to note that while this diet is diverse and easy to follow, the nutritional plan being richer in proteins than other food groups could potentially harm the kidneys, increase blood cholesterol levels, and also lead to decreased bone density. Therefore, it is advisable to consult a doctor or clinical dietitian before beginning the process. The proteins essential for this diet are mainly found in meat, fish, eggs, cheese, nuts, and legumes.