Biochemistry and nutrition expert, Leticia Carrera, encourages many of her clients to eat protein-rich meals in order to feel satiated, sleep better, improve recovery time and build lean muscle mass. In fact, one of her biggest pieces of advice is to eat protein- meals in the evening – you eat carbohydrates, healthy fats and other macronutrients during the day, then stick solely to protein come night. Not a method recommended by all experts, , a personal trainer and sports nutrition expert, suggests eating protein-rich (though not protein-only) dinners, instead.
Protein-only meals, she says, should be consumed twice a week, maximum. “Dining on protein alone may not be the best approach for long term health. While it is essential for satiation and preservation of muscle mass, a good, balanced diet also includes carbohydrates and healthy fats,” explains Lordén Álvarez, who insists on the importance of nutritional balance to ensure that the body gets all the nutrients it needs — proteins, fats and carbohydrates as well as the minerals and vitamins found in fruit and vegetables.
“Protein has a higher thermic effect — which means it also speeds up the — but a protein-only, low-carbohydrate diet can sometimes negatively affect our metabolism and energy levels.” It’s also key to ensure you’re eating lots of , such as vegetables, fruits and whole grains. Tips on eating a protein-rich diet Protein-only meals may make you feel full, but they are also nutritionally incomplete, says nutritionist .
“It is essential to ensure that the other meals you consume during the day include the recommended servings of fruit, vegetables, healthy fats and carbohydrates,” she says, adding that your health depends upon total nutritional intake. “Whether animal or vegetable, any combination of proteins are good for us. I recommend alternating protein-rich foods such as meat, fish, eggs, or pulses during the week.
” 19 protein-rich dinner ideas Lordén Álvarez and nutritionist share some ideas for easy-to-make protein-rich dinners:.
