Protein may help you control hunger, eat less and curb your snacking urge. Recent studies indicate that protein can help you feel full longer than carbohydrate or fat-rich foods. So adding lean meat or cheese to your salad makes it more meal-worthy and helps to stave off hunger and fatigue.

A weighty matter

Studies found that people on a higher protein diet (for at least up to a year) generally ate fewer calories and lost more body fat than those on other diets.With improved appetite control, you may reduce your overall calorie intake, which may result in weight loss.

Burn baby burn

Some further findings: our body actually burns a few more calories with protein-rich meals compared to fat- or carbohydrate-rich meals.

Big bonus

Weight-loss diets rich in lean protein were found to help improve blood triglyceride (fat) levels and blood glucose (sugar) levels – great news if you want to lower the risk of heart disease and diabetes.

Lean Canadian Beef goes into overtime as a great source of protein PLUS 14 nutrients essential to your good health, including all five B-complex vitamins.

Protein Pointers

Aim to include a protein source at every meal and snack – try these simple tips:

• Satisfying Salads: Toss greens or grains with slivers of grilled steak or roast beef or Swiss cheese.
• Robust Wraps: Tuck taco-seasoned cooked lean ground beef, shredded Cheddar cheese, lettuce, salsa and avocado into whole-wheat tortillas.
• Cup of Cheer: Enjoy a glass of milk with your meal.
• Full-Filling Fruit: Top fruit with some cottage cheese after your workout.
• Pumped-up Pasta: Add some cooked ground beef to your basic jar of tomato sauce and top the pasta plate with some grated cheese.

Visit Eating Well with Canada’s Food Guide: www.healthcanada.gc.ca/foodguide.