PROTEIN ~ Your Body's Fat Burning Strategy

1. Eat More Protein, Get Rid of Empty Calories. Eating more protein and reducing refined or excess amounts of carbs will help build lean mass and ignite your metabolism causing more fat to be burned. Good examples of refined carbs include white pastas, breads and rices, any non-natural sugary items (which include many non dessert items like crackers, alcohol, mixed juices.)

2. One 4-ounce serving of boneless, skinless chicken has 33 grams of high quality lean protein. It is also rich in selenium, an essential mineral that helps your metabolism stay running strong as well as provides 77% of your daily need for niacin, a B vitamin that helps boost energy and burn fat. (Source: Oxygen Magazine Feb 2012)

3. An Australian Study recently found that individuals who consumed 15% of their diet from protein over 4 days took in 1,000 fewer calories than those who took in only 10% of protein from their diet. It is believed that protein helps satiate the appetite leading to less overeating. (Source: Men's Health March 2012)

So look for "clean", non- processed versions of meats, dairy and beans to get your metabolism jump started!