When we say we want to lose weight, we typically mean shedding fat but not muscle. Muscle helps us to look "toned" and supports our metabolism. To lose fat without losing muscle, eat enough protein and strength train regularly, two top trainers said. If you want to lose fat without losing muscle, there are three things you need to know.
Rachel Swanson, a registered dietitian at LifeSpan Medicine and author of "Trying!: A Science-Backed Plan to Optimize Your Fertility," splits her time between New York City and Miami, spending about half the year in each. She also takes small-group workout classes three times a week, focusing on strength training. She says eating enough nutrients, especially protein for muscle-building, is crucial for her. She generally aims for around 0.7 grams of protein per pound of body weight, the protein intake usually recommended for physically active people.