Not all "Weight Problems" are the same

Not everyone is looking to lose weight, some need to gain or maintain body mass. I know what some of you are thinking, "poor bastards." But, it can be a real problem for some.

If you are active and underweight it becomes even more important for you to maintain a nutritionally consistent diet. For individuals that are training hard and not seeing results, look at your protein intake. Your body may already be in a metabolic overdrive, throw in some exercise, and you may see a dangerous drop in body weight, recovery and energy levels. Focus on meals that are higher in calorie but try to keep simple sugars and bad fats down. This will help you maintain and gain quality mass and prevent belly fat.

Some options:

Fruits and Nuts are high in calorie, natural sugars and fats.

Meat (lean) and Potatoes make a good combo.

Spread out your calories and include a few extra snacks.

Protein Bars and supplements might be a good easy option for you.

Genetics and be a difficult obstacle for everyone, but you can put up a good fight and achieve your goals. You do have a GOAL, right?

How Much Protien

Fact: Protein contains the same number of calories as carbs = 4

So eating protein results in eating calories, no way around it. If you are trying to take in more protein to help repair muscles after a hard workout then you must understand that you will likely be taking in more calories which will result in a BF increase.

New research from the University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston is suggesting that the body can only use 30 grams of protein (a 4-ounce serving) per meal for muscle protein synthesis (production). Therefore, 4 ounces (approximately the size of a bar of soap, a checkbook, or a deck of cards) of chicken, fish, dairy, or lean beef may be all your body can use at one time. I am glad to see this information coming out. Some of the protein supplements containing 40-50+ grams per serving pack a lot of calories and may be going to waste.

Working out hard and following a basic meal schedule of 5-6 small meals per day seems to give you the most bang for your buck. Making sure you get 20-30 grams of protein in each one of those meals is important for your recovery. Keeping your meals around 300-400 calories is my basic recommendation, it's best to keep it simple.