I already know what’s running through your mind; “if I increase my protein will
I not start building uncontrollable muscle all over my body making me look like
“Kelly The Barbarian.” The answer to that popular question is an emphatic NO!
Most female bodybuilders are genetically predisposed to put on muscle and
inevitably start injecting anabolic steroids and Testosterone into their body
to compete with the other she-males. That’s why they start buying Motor
magazine and shave their face twice a day. Nothing to do with eating a bit more
protein.
Women in power and strength based sports and those that compete in Figure
competitions routinely consume relatively large amounts of protein and are
lean, strong, athletic and still remain very feminine. These women are incredibly
strong, athletic, lift weights and likely eat above the RDA (Recommended Daily
Allowance) of protein and I would be happy take them out on a date.
carbohydrate nutritional plan, through the signalling of Glucagon and
consequently lowering of it’s antagonist, Insulin. Lowering insulin levels is a
good thing for body fat reduction. Over production of insulin can cause fat
accumulation, premature aging, heart disease, diabetes and effect negatively
the balance of cortisol to testosterone and testosterone to Estrogen ratio.
Lowering of insulin is associated with increased Growth Hormone levels. Growth
Hormone has received much publicity lately and seems to be the new anti-aging
hormone of choice in America. It also preserves muscle tissue, promotes fat
loss, tissue healing, heals the gut lining and improves immunity.Protein has close to double the thermic effect of both fat and carbohydrates.
Meaning the consumption of protein leads to an increase in metabolic rate.Another benefit from increasing protein intake is the auxiliary nutrients that
come with that intake. Creatine, branch chain amino acids, GLA, CLA, vit b in
meat, omega 3, vit A and vit D in eggs. These all have numerous health benefits
that holistically aid in the attainment of a lowered body fat.
If the above does not convince you to increase your protein intake maybe the
below list of positive improvements attributed to optimal protein consumption
will.
- Decreased headaches
- Improved muscle tone
- Decreased fat storage
- Increased energy levels
- Increased mood stability
- Improved strength
- Improved focus
- Improved recovery
- Increased sense of well-being
essential amino acids our bodies NEED to thrive. They are found in meat, fish
and eggs. The amount needed for optimal improvements really depends on
lifestyle, training, physique goals and genetic type. Most individuals,
especially women consume too little protein. I’m not going to give you exact
numbers on how much you should be eating as carrying a calculator with you at
meal times is very unsociable, but a full source of protein at every meal is
for most, ideal.To re-iterate:1. Have less grains and sugar then usual with each meal.
2. Eat more protein (meat, fish, eggs, nuts: in order of importance and
quantity)