What is a Complete Protein Diet?

A complete protein diet is a type of diet that consists mainly of protein. Since protein is believed to help the body build muscle faster than other nutrients, many believe that a diet full of protein is the best way to get into shape quickly. In addition, many people who follow a complete protein diet are able to curb food cravings better than those people who only eat a minimal amount of protein.

Those who wish to follow a complete protein diet should reduce the amount of carbohydrates currently consumed. Approximately thirty-five perfect of one's daily caloric intake should consist of protein if a high protein diet is to be followed. By replacing a large percentage of carbohydrates with protein, dieters are far less likely to feel hungry on a regular basis. While it has been proven that a complete protein diet does suppress one's appetite, scientists are unsure why this occurs.

Even though adding an additional amount of protein to one's diet may help burn fat quickly, there is some speculation as to whether or not a complete protein diet is healthy. Anyone attempting to follow a high protein diet should increase protein amounts slowly. In addition, the type of protein that is consumed should be carefully considered.

While meat and fish are obvious choices of protein, other foods provide an adequate amount of protein as well. Eggs, milk, dairy products, tofu, cottage cheese, peanut butter, and many other foods are high in protein. Thus, following a complete protein diet should consist of a wide variety of foods that are high in protein, yet low in calories.

In order to achieve weight loss, a complete protein diet must be combined with exercise. Bodybuilders often follow a high protein diet in order to build muscle mass quickly, though these individuals also exercise on a regular basis. It is not recommended that dieters attempt to add a large percentage of red meat to a high protein diet. While red meat does contain protein, excessive amounts of red meat can lead to a number of health problems.

People who have kidney disease should not follow a diet that is high in protein. Since protein can be difficult for the kidneys to process, eating a diet rich in protein could cause harm to those suffering from kidney disease. Before embarking on a high protein diet, it is best to consult with a medical doctor.