Your secret weapon to enjoying summer in your best shape yet

This key nutrient may be just what you need to look and feel your festive and fabulous best at this time of year.

Being in lockdown, working from home, living with COVID restrictions.

All these factors may have made staying on top of health and fitness this year pretty well totes impossible.

And now all of a sudden it’s time to pull out your summer clothes and fancy festive frocks and, well, things are a little snug…

COVID hasn’t been great for waistlines

In a CSIRO study of almost 4000 people, 40 per cent of participants felt they had gained kilos during the pandemic, and 66 per cent reported their exercise levels had decreased.

So, is there a way you can feel fabulous and enjoy all the Christmas season has to offer without derailing your healthy eating goals? Yes, yes and yes.

The power of protein

Protein’s part in healthy weight management is undeniable, but you need to turn to science to understand how this vital nutrient (which your body needs to grow and repair cells and function properly) works.

Research has shown that higher protein diets can lead to better appetite control, enhancements in your metabolism and reduced cravings.

The most obvious benefit of protein is that it can fill you up without adding too many kilojoules to your diet. No more sneaky snacks and over-eating, check.

Are you getting enough protein?

According to the Nutrient Reference Values for Australia and New Zealand, the average adult needs about 0.8g of protein per kilo of body weight.

CSIRO suggests it should be a bit more, particularly for overweight people.

For a women weighing 71kg that means 85-114g of protein a day for weight loss.

Quality protein whole foods include lean meat, poultry, eggs, legumes and dairy products.

If you’re vegan or vegetarian, pea protein is a great option to up your quota.

Studies show that not only can this 100 per cent plant-based protein aid in weight loss, it’s easy to digest, can help build lean muscle and is a solid source of iron.

Vital Slim and Trim Protein Formula is a great vegan-friendly way to power up, particularly if you are looking at long-term weight management.

It contains high-quality European pea protein mixed with other excellent weight management-supporting ingredients including L-Carnitine and thermogenic spices ginger, turmeric and cayenne pepper.

The unique vegan protein blend with natural chocolate flavour is designed to help curb cravings, boost metabolism and assist in weight management.

It contains less than 1 percent natural sugar, is low in calories and is all natural.

Best of all, it doesn’t cause bloating and is easily digestible – so you can hit the beach and summer catch-ups feeling your absolute best.

*This post is brought to you by Vital Slim and Trim Protein Formula. Always read the label. Use only as directed. Vitamin supplements should not replace a balanced diet.