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A higher protein intake can be beneficial, but it isn’t for everyone. It’s always best to visit your doctor or healthcare practitioner if you have any questions or concerns about protein or your diet and before you make any dietary changes. [1] [2] Protein isn’t just beneficial; it’s essential. Let’s discuss the top
five benefits of eating more protein. Muscle Mass and StrengthGetting enough protein is important for everyone, not just athletes and those who are physically active, trying to gain muscle, and lifting weights. Protein is considered the building block of your muscles, so eating more protein promotes muscle growth.
Studies reveal consuming plenty of protein increases muscle strength and mass, and maintaining a high protein intake helps prevent muscle loss during weight loss. [3] [4] Woman lifting weights and building muscleBone HealthIt’s a myth
that protein is bad for your bones. Some people perpetuate the idea that protein, particularly animal protein, increases the acidity load in the body and causes calcium to leach from your bones to neutralize the acid and maintain the right ph. However, long-term studies show that protein, including natural animal protein, is advantageous for wellness and bone health. [5] [6]Taking care of bone health is also crucial for women who are at a higher risk of osteoporosis, especially after menopause.
[12]Ezekiel bread is a sprouted ancient grain bread containing organic grains and legumes, including soybeans, lentils, millet, wheat, and barley. Some people might be able to incorporate one slice of Ezekiel bread on keto. [13]Off-Limits High Carb GrainsGrains that are less processed and refined also usually have a lower carb content. Some grains and refined grain-based products have a much higher carb count and are lower in fiber, making them off-limits on keto, such as:White breadRefined pastaWhite riceGrain-based breakfast cerealPizza doughInstant oatmealWheat flour muffins and cakesCrackersAdding Grains to a Keto DietThe easiest and best way to determine if a little portion of carbs will kick you out of ketosis is by testing your ketone levels. People are different, and you might be sensitive to certain types of carbs, while others have little to no effect. Generally speaking, if you are certain that grains are suitable for your health and results, choose unprocessed, unrefined, and lower carb whole grains like wild rice, popcorn, and bulgur. Those on a therapeutic ketogenic diet of less than 25-30 grams of carbs daily may choose to avoid all grains, while those following a more standard ketogenic diet may decide to consume smaller amounts of lower carb grains. And others eliminate grains altogether out of concern for detrimental ingredients and possibly adverse effects on the microbiome. Wild rice is a low-carb grainIf you want to expand your palette or adopt a more paleo approach, you can use keto-compliant whole-grain alternatives like almond flour and coconut flour. Read our article for info on ideal grain substitutes for your favorite grain-based foods like noodles, pasta, cereal, and bread. Use lettuce wraps or make keto burger buns with coconut flour.