Protein Burns More Energy

The last post was about low carbs and low carb dieting. "Lower carb" diets such as Atkins and the South Beach diet (I used the term lower carb since Atkins is much more strict regarding actual grams of carb intake while South Beach focuses on the types of carbs that are ingested) usually involve a higher protein intake.

Well, here's an interesting factoid regarding protein consumption and low carb dieting. According to Dr. Jeff Volek at the University of Connecticut, the simple act of increasing one's consumption of dietary protein may have an effect on weight loss.

This is because protein is not an ideal energy source for the body. It is more difficult to break down than carbohydrate and, thus, it requires more energy, i.e. calories.