Weight loss expert Dr Michael Mosley has encouraged those wanting to shed a few pounds to make sure they're getting enough protein in their diet, declaring that this macronutrient is the key to ensuring effective long-lasting results.
The TV doctor and brain behind the Fast800 diet explained that protein is so integral to the proper functioning of the human body that its name is derived from the Greek word 'proteios' which- quite literally means 'first rank', or 'primary'.
You can get your protein sources from animal products such as meat, eggs, and dairy, as well as through plant-based foods such as beans, pulses, and nuts
On top of a range of other enormous health benefits, including good bone health and lowered blood pressure, protein is also said to go "hand in hand" with weight loss.
In a recent blog post published on the Fast 800 website, Dr Mosley advised: "Unlike carbohydrates and fat, the body cannot store protein, so it's important to eat quality sources of protein each day to reap the benefits.
"We recommend eating at least 60g of protein per day. To put that into perspective, the average 100g chicken breast is around 31g of protein. Similarly, a medium egg contains around 6g of protein, a cup of chickpeas contains roughly 14g, and broccoli totals around 4g of protein per stalk."
Dr Mosley then went on to list just some of the reasons why incorporating quality sources of protein into your daily diet could make all the difference to your weight loss endeavours.
Helps to decrease hunger
Protein will help you stay fuller for longer, meaning you will be less likely to be snacking away between meals. This is because protein is known to be linked to the increased secretion of satiety hormones GIP and GLP-1, as well as the reduction of the hunger hormone ghrelin.
Burns calories while you're asleep
Protein is said to improve thermogenesis, the process of producing heat through burning calories, and is said to have a far higher thermic effect when compared to carbohydrates and fat.
A high-protein diet means that you'll be burning more calories night and day, even when you're fast asleep.
Maintains your muscle mass while you lose weight
According to Dr Mosley, eating sufficient protein will keep your metabolism high, helping you maintain muscle mass while losing body fat, especially when paired with an exercise plan.
Prevents weight regain
Dr Mosley claims that by boosting your protein from 15 percent up to 18 percent of your calorie intake, you will be able to reduce post-weight loss weight regain by as much as 50 percent.
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