Meal replacements and protein powders Protein powders and meal replacements are now two of the most popular and multi- purpose types of dietary supplements available. They are used for a great variety of reasons, by a cross-section of people, for a number of health goals. For example: • by slimmers, searching for low calorie, nutrients-fortified meal substitutes and snacks • by athletes and body builders for a protein boost, to support their recovery times and performance • by those suffering with food allergies or sensitivities (such as coeliacs / celiacs), to support their nutrient intake on a restricted diet • by those on low-protein diets, such as vegetarians and vegans. Weight management Many research projects have indicated that a high-protein diet combined with exercise can support the weight management process, enhance fat loss, improve muscle tone and improve blood fat levels. Protein can also assist in the repair and growth of muscle. This, in turn, brings about more calories being burned each day. Higher-protein diets may also help people to get better control over their appetites and calorie intake, as well as help to regulate blood sugar levels and reduce cravings. Everyone knows that the slimming process can be a challenge. Most weight management programmes require limited food choice and a reduction in calories. This can on occasion contribute to a nutrient-deficient diet, if the slimmer is not careful. For those who want to reduce their calorie (and fat and sugar) intake, but nonetheless want to be assured that they are getting a healthy amount of vitamins, minerals and nutrients daily, meal replacements and/or protein powders could provide the answer. Dietary supplementation Anyone who suffers from an allergy (whether that be to gluten or dairy or any other form of food allergy or intolerance), will know how difficult it can be to regularly source foods that suit their lifestyle and medical needs. Food choice can oftentimes become very limited and, without variety in the diet, a person’s overall well-being can begin to suffer. It is important to bear this challenge in mind and take proactive action to address it. For example, through cautious meal planning and dietary supplementation. Organic meal replacements and protein powders that are dairy, wheat, gluten and sugar free (with no artificial ingredients) are arguably some of the best ways to top-up on nutrients and calories if an allergy sufferer is finding it difficult to sustain a varied diet. Gym and bodybuilding Without enough protein, the human body can't operate correctly. Protein is very important for anyone who routinely places increased strain on their bodies, such as routine gym-goers and professional bodybuilders. This is because protein is thought to be important for maintaining and increasing muscle and bone mass, for tissue and cell repair, for keeping the immune system strong and for reducing fatigue. It is also one of the top sources of energy when following a low carbohydrate diet, which many bodybuilders do because it can be of assistance with fat loss and can improve muscle definition. Sports Anyone who leads an active lifestyle, and especially endurance athletes (such as runners, swimmers, cyclists and triathletes etc), will probably be used to focusing on making sure of adequate intake of carbohydrates to enhance performance and prevent muscle breakdown. However, clinical tests have also shown the beneficial impact of protein for performance, muscle repair and recovery. Vegans, vegetarians and raw food fans For vegetarians and vegans, a common challenge is that in many cases they do not take in enough calories or protein to maintain their weight or meet their body’s needs. A vegetarian or vegan diet does not necessarily mean a diet lacking in protein or calories, but it is clearly harder to maintain both in a healthy and nutritious manner. As mentioned above, protein is a critical nutrient, which plays many roles in the operation of our bodies, including building and repairing new cells and muscle tissue. Nutritional guidelines suggest that, as a simply rule, between 10-15% of a person's total calories should come from protein. Fruit and vegetable-based meal replacements and protein powders can play an incredibly helpful role in the diets of vegans and vegetarians, to address not only the challenge of ensuring optimum intake of protein and calories, but also to ensure suitable intake of other vitamins, minerals and nutrients. * Before changing your diet or taking health supplements, it is recommended to consult your doctor or qualified health practitioner (particularly if you are pregnant, breastfeeding or on medications).        © Specialist Supplements Ltd 2011 This is an information site only!  0845 094 3627 Slim, Trim and Healthy Slim, Trim and Healthy [Diet] [Health Info] [Herbs] [Metabolism] [Slimming] [Weight Loss] [Slimming Products] [Slimming Diets] [Slim Down] [Slimming and Nutrition] [Health Care] [Weight Management Supplements] [Colon Cleansers] [Digestive System Supplements] [Cleanse and Detox Supplements] [Organic Products] [Superfood Supplements] [Health Foods] [Meal Replacements] [Protein Powders] [Probiotics] [Fat Burner Formula] [Home] [Health Information] [Balanced Diet] [Meal Replacements and Protein Powders] [Your Metabolism] [Obesity] [Sitemap] [HTML Sitemap] [HTM Sitemap] [Links] [Blog]