How much protein should you really get each day and do you really need it if you are not trying to build muscle? Read on to learn more...

To save you the suspense, YES, it's important to get protein every day. One of the most important benefits of protein is to protect muscle tissue. The more muscle tissue you have on you than fat, the more you're body will automatically metabolize and burn fat, the more energy you'll have, and of course...you'll look good (more toned)!

Now you don't have to go crazy and eat 1 1/2 grams of protein per pound of body weight like what bodybuilders do, but I do recommend you get at least 1/2 your body weight in ounces daily, and slightly more if you are actively weight training and doing intense exercising.

Here are 5 good sources of protein:

1. As far as meats: Lean chicken breast, tuna, salmon, and turkey breast.
2. Yogurt
3. Egg whites
4. Beans (Kidney, lentils, pinto)
5. Protein shakes

I recommend you get all of those sources above each day. Here's a sample meal plan:

Breakfast: Egg whites, whole grain toast, an apple, and a yogurt.
Mid morning meal: Protein shake with 1 piece of fruit.
Lunch: Tuna salad with egg whites.
Late Afternoon: Turkey breast wrap.
Dinner: Chicken breast, kidney beans, brown rice, and broccoli.
Dessert: Delicious protein shake blended with blueberries/strawberries!

Also, please remember, your body needs ALL sorts of nutrients and when you restrict or lower these nutrients, this will end up having an adverse effect too long to mention! So therefore, make sure you not only get plenty of protein, but also fiber, healthy fats (such as monounsaturated), and foods rich in vitamins and minerals (fruits and veggies).

Want more menu plan ideas? Check out this powerful online diet program called "Calorie Shifting" here. This diet will have you lose 9 pounds of fat every 11 days simply by eating more frequently, and utilizing a proven diet secret called "shifting". See my full review of this fat loss diet at http://www.FatLossIn11days.info