Eating Protein Can Help Kick Your Metabolism Into High Gear

Metabolism is most often thought of for its role in weight regulation and a balance (or imbalance) of energy in versus energy expended. But the math is not quite that simple. 

The body spends significantly more energy digesting, absorbing, and metabolizing protein after a meal compared to carbs or fats. This process, known as thermogenesis1, increases your metabolic rate and contributes to your daily calorie burn—desirable attributes for weight maintenance or even fat loss2.

Protein has a 20-30% thermic effect3. So what exactly does this mean? Dietitian and renowned fitness coach Holly Baxter previously told mindbodygreen, "If you eat 100 calories from protein, you'll be left with 70 [usable] calories because of its thermic effect. Whereas dietary fat has a thermic effect of about 0—so 100 calories from fat equals 100 calories." 

Proteins are found in a variety of foods—everything from dairy products to meat, seafood, whole grains, and tofu. 

When it comes down to protein quality, animal proteins do reign. "[They] have a superior amino acid ratio," notes Baxter. "And they have a combination of those individual amino acids, specifically leucine, that is critical for muscle growth."

This also includes whey protein powders—which are some of the most researched supplements out there. Decades of data8 show that consuming whey protein regularly supports blood sugar and muscle protein synthesis.* 

mindbodygreen's grass-fed whey protein isolate+ provides 25 grams of bioavailable whey protein (no casein) to help you hit your daily protein goals and support your metabolic health.* The whey protein isolate in our supplement contains more protein and less fat per serving than powders using whey protein concentrate, making it a smart (and convenient) addition to your routine.