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If you’re trying to lose weight then protein is an important part of your weight loss plan. It makes the hunger pangs go away plus supplies vital nutrients to your muscles and organs. Too much of it can be harmful but in your are on a diet – especially a calorie restriction diet – then you run the risk of taking in too little.
What is the right amount of protein? Here’s what Dr. Steven Pratt says in his book SuperFoods RX: “In 2002, the National Academy of Sciences published a new Dietary Reference Intake on everything from fiber to fatty acids…What does [it] translate to in everyday terms? Well, adult women need at least 46 grams of protein; adult men, 56 grams (very active and elderly people may well need more). It’s very easy to achieve this protein recommendation. A woman can reach her daily goal with 3 ounces of tuna (20 grams of protein) plus 3 ounces of turkey breast (26 grams of protein)…A few dangers in an exceptionally high protein intake: the more protein you take in, the more calcium you excrete in your urine, raising your risk for osteoporosis.”
