Nearly every function in our body requires protein, from tissue formation and repair, to our enzymes and amino acids. Without a diet rich in essential amino acids, we would cease to function.

Nearly every function in our body requires protein, from tissue formation and repair, to our enzymes and amino acids. Without a diet rich in essential amino acids, we would cease to function.

Your body requires 20 amino acids in order to synthesize proteins. 12 are known as nonessential amino acids. The remaining 8 essential amino acids are not made in the body, so they MUST be obtained from food. Eating complete proteins is vital for a healthy and fit body.

Let me share 5 complete proteins that are beneficial for fat loss as they keep post-meal insulin levels within a desirable range. When insulin is released into the bloodstream, it acts to shuttle glucose, amino acids, and blood fats into the fat and muscle cells of the body.

Eating the right foods at the right times will help control hormone levels and insure you aren't storing fat on the body. Here are 5 of the best protein sources to help you shed fat, while building muscle and controlling hormone levels.

Chicken

Chicken provides approximately 68% of the daily value for protein and 72% of the daily value of cholesterol lowering vitamin B, niacin in 4oz.

Chicken is a good source of selenium. Selenium is needed for thyroid hormone metabolism, antioxidant defense systems, and immune Niacin helps optimize blood sugar regulation via its actions as a component of a molecule called glucose tolerance factor, which optimizes insulin activity. A four-ounce serving of chicken supplies 72.0% of the daily value for niacin and 32.0% of the Daily Value for vitamin B6.

Organic Greek Yogurt

An excellent source of calcium and good source of protein, Greek yogurt consists of bacteria cultures to aid digestion, and can be found without fat or added sugars. Greek yogurt is thicker and creamier than regular yogurt, so many people feel like they’re eating a decadent, rich treat. It’s also a great low fat substitute for regular sour cream.

One serving (3/4 cup) of plain, non fat Greek yogurt has 18 to 21 grams of protein and 110 to 120 calories. The same amount of regular, plain non fat yogurt has 9 grams of protein and 100 calories.

Turkey

Turkey is beneficial for fat loss as it keeps post-meal insulin levels within a desirable range. Turkey is an excellent source of protein, providing 68% of the daily value in a 4oz portion. Along with protein, turkey is a very good source of selenium, niacin, vitamin B6, phosphorus and zinc which boost the immune system and keep your heart functioning optimally.

Lean Organic Beef

Lean organic beef provides a very good source of protein, and a good source of vitamin B12, selenium, zinc, iron, phosphorus and B vitamins without the concern for pesticides, hormone and antibiotic residues that may be found in non-organic varieties.

Lean beef provides 64% of the daily value for protein in just 4oz and contains nutrients that protect your heart and prevent colon cancer.

Cancer Protection Diets high in vitamin B12-rich foods, especially if they are low in fat, are also associated with a reduced risk of colon cancer an with the addition of Selenium, which also helps reduce the risk of colon cancer, you can ensure your risk significantly drops.

Lean beef is a good source of zinc, which is helpful for preventing the damage to blood vessel walls that can contribute to atherosclerosis and is also needed for the proper function of the immune system, making it a good nutrient for helping to prevent infection, common cold, and flu.

Salmon

4oz of salmon contains at least 2 grams of omega-3 fats, more than the average U.S. adult gets from all food over the course of several days. Omega 3's are known for their benefits in decreasing cardiovascular heart disease risk, improving mood and cognition, as well as joint protection. This protein is also a very beneficial fat source to help with regulating hormones.

White Fish

White fish is very low in fat and high in protein. Consuming a diet with moderate amounts of white fish will ensure you are showing off your stomach every chance you get.

Your diet should not be a battle and I trust that this will help guide you towards achieving better health through these top choices of protein.