Are you looking forward to losing weight? If you are a huge fan of paneer as much as I am, and wondering if this creamy paneer is good for weight loss or not? Then you are at the right place. Paneer is not only delicious but also nutritious. Paneer is a staple used a lot in South Asian Countries, especially in India. In this blog, we are deep-diving into the world of paneer by understanding the nutritional value it provides, is paneer good for weight loss, the pros and cons towards the weight loss journey and how can you incorporate paneer into your diet to get maximum benefits. So, enjoy this cheesy journey, whether you are just a health enthusiast who is trying to make a healthy choice or a paneer lover who is curious to understand if Panner will be your friend in your weight loss journey or not.
Nutritional Value of Paneer
By understanding the nutritional value of paneer you can understand if is paneer for weight loss. Paneer is nutrient-dense dense which is packed with essential macronutrients and micronutrients. The vital macronutrients are carbohydrates, proteins and fats. Let’s understand one by one each of them-:-
1. Protein(18 grams per 100 grams) – Protein is very essential for the body as they are the building blocks that repairs the wear and tear of muscles caused by daily movements like walking, running etc. Paneer is a protein-rich food. It has approximately 18 grams of protein per 100 grams and a person’s daily requirement of protein is 0.8 grams per kilogram of body weight. For vegetarians, it is a very good source of protein. In a vegetarian diet, there are very few sources that provide complete protein including all 9 amino acids which paneer does have, making it an ideal choice for vegetarians.
2. Carbohydrates(1.2 grams per 100 grams) – Carbohydrates are the main energy source for the body. However, paneer is low in carbohydrates which can be helpful for low-carb and keto diets to lose your weight.
3. Fats(20 grams per 100 grams) – Paneer also has a considerable amount of fats which might concern those who want to shed some pounds. But you need to understand that all fats are not unhealthy, our body also needs healthy fats to keep our body’s functions in work. Paneer does have saturated fats. Fats are necessary to produce long-lasting energy whereas energy provided by carbohydrates is instant energy.
Paneer has all the necessary micronutrients as well which are – calcium, phosphorus, potassium, magnesium, Zinc, Vitamin D, B2, B12, and A.
Is Paneer Good for Weight Loss ?
Pros Paneer for Weight Loss
1. Versatile – Paneer is a versatile food which means it can be eaten in multiple ways from salad to soups and raw to grilled. It can be included in various dishes. The versatility is beneficial for those who get fed up by eating the same food in order to achieve the target of weight loss. Paneer is a good option as it can be included in your diet in different ways.
2. Low in carbs – Carbohydrates are low in carbohydrates. By the reduced consumption of carbohydrates, you will stabilize your sugar levels which means you will have less cravings and promote fat burning.
3. Appetite Control – The combination of protein and fats can keep you full for a longer period of time. The presence of fats provides long-lasting energy which keeps you ready to do work for a longer period of time which is a benefit because if you start to feel low on energy you need to eat something to do regular tasks. So, it does prevent overeating.
4. Protein-rich – As I have mentioned above, protein has the property to repair muscles. If you workout or do some physical activity to lose weight then protein will be helpful to repair the wear and tear caused to muscles which is why athletes and gym enthusiasts usually drink protein shakes. It also aids satiety, keeping you full for a long time. Eventually decreasing more calorie intake.
Cons Paneer for Weight Loss
1. Lactose Content – Few people are lactose intolerant. For such kinds of persons, panner can cause indigestion issues, making it unsuitable to include in your diet.
2. Fat Content – Paneer does have high fat content which can slow down the weight loss of your body.
3. Calorie Density – Paneer is also high in calories. If you consume a large quantity of paneer then it can hinder weight loss which means moderation is the key.
How to Eat Paneer for Weight Loss ?
- Paneer Salad for Weight Loss - You can eat it raw with some mixture of vegetables as a salad. It will give you energy plus keep you full for a longer period of time.
- Cooking Method - You can grill or bake, but frying paneer should be avoided.
Best Time to Eat Paneer for Weight Loss
Paneer should be consumed at the most active time so that calories consumed are utilized efficiently . It is suggested to be consumed in daytime rather than night.
Conclusion
Paneer is more than a food in India, it is a special ingredient for most dishes that touches the heart of every person because of its taste. It is packed with nutritional benefits which can provide immense benefits to your health. But the question arises is paneer good for weight loss? The answer is yes if you take some cautious steps. Paneer is a valuable addition to your weight loss journey. The very reason behind this is that it is low in carbs and high in protein. Though it has a considerable amount of fats which can hinder your journey however some healthy food additions with paneer can compensate it’s a little drawback. You just need to eat protein in moderation and with some other healthy foods. Additionally, if get to know how to portion control, best cooking methods and incorporating paneer to intake a balanced diet, then you can enjoy its benefits along with your weight loss journey. Incorporate paneer in your diet but with mindful eating.